Subcutaneous emphysema and pneumomediastinum due to foreign body aspiration in children with asthma

Pneumomediastinum (PM) and subcutaneous emphysema (SCE) are well recognized as complications of acute asthma exacerbation in children with asthma. We present herein a report of three cases of asthmatic children who presented with PM and SCE found to be secondary to foreign body aspiration. The cases highlight that clinicians must remain vigilant for co-morbidities in an asthma exacerbation, and less common etiologies of PM and SCE, such as foreign body aspiration, should also be carefully considered in asthmatic children.