Subcutaneous emphysema, pneumomediastinum, and pneumothorax in diabetic ketoacidosis.

The authors report two cases of coexistent pneumomediastinum and diabetic ketoacidosis. One patient had pneumothorax as well. Hyperpnea or vomiting, or a combination of the two, may be the etiologic agent in such cases. The prognosis is excellent and there is prompt regression of the pneumomediastinum following correction of the ketoacidosis.