Pneumomediastinum in the neonate.

A pneumomediastinum is an air leak in which the free air is concentrated in the mediastinum. Although most neonatal pneumomediastinums do not require intervention, complications such as subsequent air leaks can arise. Proper radiologic identification, as well as an understanding of the anatomy and pathophysiology associated with a pneumomediastinum, are necessary for an accurate understanding and diagnosis. This article will review the interpretation of radiologic findings in a neonate with a pneumomediastinum.