Citation, DOI, disclosures and article data
Citation:
Hsu C, Silverstone L, Ismail M, et al. Macklin effect. Reference article, Radiopaedia.org (Accessed on 04 May 2024) https://doi.org/10.53347/rID-20665
The Macklin effect refers to pneumomediastinum caused by alveolar rupture and pulmonary interstitial emphysema tracking to the mediastinum along the peribronchovascular interstitium. This is typically seen in blunt chest trauma or asthma.
Pathology
A sudden rise in intra-alveolar pressure can rupture the alveolar wall and gas can dissect through the interstitium. This is commonly due to severe blunt chest trauma or high-speed deceleration and can co-exist with tracheobronchial tear 1.
Radiographic features
CT
Pulmonary interstitial emphysema with gas tracking along the peribronchovascular sheaths towards the hilum and mediastium.
History and etymology
The pathophysiologic process was first proposed by C C Macklin in 1939 2.
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1. Wintermark M & Schnyder P. The Macklin Effect: A Frequent Etiology for Pneumomediastinum in Severe Blunt Chest Trauma. Chest. 2001;120(2):543-7. doi:10.1378/chest.120.2.543 - Pubmed
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2. Macklin CC. Transport of air along sheaths of pulmonic blood vessels from alveoli to mediastinum: clinical implications. Arch Intern Med 1939; 64:913–926
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3. Murayama S & Gibo S. Spontaneous Pneumomediastinum and Macklin Effect: Overview and Appearance on Computed Tomography. World J Radiol. 2014;6(11):850-4. doi:10.4329/wjr.v6.i11.850 - Pubmed
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