ABSTRACT
Decompression illness (DCI), encompassing both decompression sickness (DCS) and arterial gas embolism (AGE), is a potentially life threatening condition encountered as a result of exposure to a reduction in barometric pressure. It can occur during ascent in astronauts and aviators as well as compressed gas divers and caisson workers. DCI is a syndrome of numerous possible manifestations, thought to be initiated by the presence of bubbles of gas in the body tissues and circulation.
