Case Report: Spontaneous subgaleal aerocele

Abstract

Apart from reporting about a case of spontaneous subgaleal aerocele this paper looks at the possible causes and management also. A 35‑year‑old Igbo‑Nigerian female, about 4 weeks post‑natal, with a 10‑month old steadily and gradually enlarging mass around the back of her head, including both temporal regions was referred to us. Plain skull radiographs showed air in this mass. Needle puncture produced air leading to immediate and complete flattening of the lesion. A few hours after this procedure while still in the hospital premises, she had generalized convulsions, for which she was hospitalized and treated. With no further attacks, her request for discharge the following day was granted. At the next visit, 7 days later, there was a re‑accumulation, which was treated the same way as previously and with the same result. She has not reported back since then, though she was advised to visit us again in 7 day‑time. This lesion should be considered when masses on the head are presented. Our health institutions should have adequate investigative facilities.

Key words: Air, extracranium, facilities, mastoids, sinus