RT Journal Article SR Electronic T1 Cerebral air embolism caused by a bronchogenic cyst JF Practical Neurology JO Pract Neurol FD BMJ Publishing Group Ltd SP 164 OP 166 DO 10.1136/jnnp.2010.211821 VO 10 IS 3 A1 Simon Jung A1 Roland Wiest A1 Susanna Frigerio A1 Heinrich P Mattle A1 Christian W Hess YR 2010 UL http://pn.bmj.com/content/10/3/164.abstract AB An unusual case is presented of a tourist who developed fatal cerebral air embolism, pneumomediastinum and pneumopericardium while ascending from low altitude to Europe's highest railway station. Presumably the air embolism originated from rupture of the unsuspected bronchogenic cyst as a result of pressure changes during the ascent. Cerebral air embolism has been observed during surgery, in scuba diving accidents, submarine escapes and less frequently during exposure to very high altitude. People with known bronchogenic cysts should be informed about the risk of cerebral air embolism and surgical removal should be considered. Cerebral air embolism is a rare cause of coma and stroke in all activities with rapid air pressure changes, including alpine tourism, as our unfortunate tourist illustrates.