Tension Pneumomediastinum in a Patient with H1N1 Pneumonia: A Rare Case Report

We report here the case of a 28-year-old pregnant woman who developed adult respiratory distress syndrome, ventilator-associated injury, and sepsis following H1N1 virus infection. She presented with rapidly worsening breathlessness and a 4-day history of fever. Initial computed tomography scan of the chest showed right mid and lower zone alveolar infiltrates. Immediate postadmission, she was tachypneic and required high concentration oxygen to maintain saturations. The patient recovered following prolonged ventilator support, moderate inotrope support, and 6 weeks of hospital stay. The study highlights the significance of prompt diagnosis and management of tension pneumomediastinum to prevent any life-threatening complications.