Pneumomediastinum and surgical emphysema following EBUS-TBNA with a 22-gauge needle in a patient with hypersensitivity pneumonitis

Endobronchial ultrasound with transbronchial needle aspiration (EBUS-TBNA) is a commonly performed safe diagnostic procedure, though complications such as pneumomediastinum and surgical emphysema are rare. In this report, we describe the case of a male in his early 50s diagnosed with hypersensitivity pneumonitis who developed these complications following an EBUS-TBNA and fibreoptic bronchoscopy procedure. The patient’s condition was promptly recognised and managed conservatively, leading to a rapid recovery within 24 hours. This case emphasises the need for clinical vigilance, even with routine procedures, especially in patients with interstitial lung diseases.