Publication/Presentation Date
6-22-2020
Abstract
Pneumatosis intestinalis (PI) consists of multiple, thin, gas-filled cysts in the wall of the gastrointestinal (GI) tract. It is an uncommon entity that can involve any gastrointestinal site from the stomach to the rectum. Isolated stomach involvement is rare. PI can represent a broad spectrum of diseases with variable prognoses. We present the case of a patient who was admitted with gastroenteritis-like symptoms. He remained hemodynamically stable, and on further imaging with contrast-enhanced computed tomography of the abdomen and pelvis, air was found in the portal vein and gastric wall, with minimal thickening of the proximal small bowel concerning for emphysematous gastroenteritis. Further workup results were negative, including blood cultures, stool studies, Clostridium difficile toxins, and lactic acid levels. The patient was managed nonoperatively and recovered without serious complications. Our case is unique in terms of the presence of air in the portal vein, which would otherwise suggest the possible spread of infection across the bowel wall.
Volume
12
Issue
6
First Page
8765
Last Page
8765
ISSN
2168-8184
Published In/Presented At
Mehmood, A., Essrani, R., Parvataneni, S., & Iqbal, U. (2020). Unique Case of Gastroenteritis Presenting as Pneumatosis Intestinalis With Emphysematous Gastritis and Portal Vein Gas: Do Not Take Gastroenteritis Lightly. Cureus, 12(6), e8765. https://doi.org/10.7759/cureus.8765
Disciplines
Gastroenterology | Medicine and Health Sciences
PubMedID
32676256
Peer Reviewed for front end display
Peer-Reviewed
Department(s)
Department of Medicine
Document Type
Article