Air trapped under the skin is referred to as what?

Air trapped under the skin is referred to as subcutaneous emphysema. This condition occurs when air leaks into the subcutaneous tissue, which is the layer of fat and connective tissue just beneath the skin. It can often be caused by trauma or injury, allowing air from the lungs or other areas of the body to enter the space under the skin.

Subcutaneous emphysema can lead to swelling and a characteristic crackling sensation when the affected area is touched, known as crepitus. Understanding this condition is essential for scuba divers and medical professionals, as it can sometimes be associated with diving injuries or barotrauma.

The other terms refer to different medical conditions: pneumothorax is the presence of air in the pleural cavity, mediastinal emphysema involves air in the mediastinum (the central compartment of the thoracic cavity), and air embolism occurs when air bubbles enter the bloodstream, which is a serious condition that can happen during dives if proper ascent procedures are not followed.