Spontaneous Mediastinal Emphysema Associated with the Use of Synthetic Cannabinoid (Bonsai)

Turk Thorac J. 2016 Jan;17(1):38-40. doi: 10.5578/ttj.17.1.008. Epub 2015 Nov 20.

Abstract

Spontaneous Mediastinal Emphysema (SME), which is a rarely seen case is defined as the detection of free air in the mediastinum without any trauma. Although rare, some cases secondary to drug use have been reported. In this study, two SME cases that developed due to the use of a synthetic cannabinoid known as "bonzai", which has recently become widespread in Turkey, are presented. We would like to emphasize that SME should also be considered in the differential diagnosis of patients who present with the symptoms of chest pain and dyspnea and have a history of drug use.

Keywords: Mediastinal emphysema; drug use; synthetic cannabinoid.