Work

Emphysematous gastritis

Year: 2011

Type: article

Abstract: INTRODUCTION: Emphysematous gastritis (EG) is a rare and often fatal disorder involving infection of the gastric wall by gas-forming organisms. PRESENTATION OF CASE: We present the case of a 25-year-old diabetic man with severe gastroparesis, who complained of vomiting and right upper quadrant pain. The surgical consultant exam in the emergency department revealed a tender but not acute abdomen. On abdominal computed tomographic imaging, there was gas throughout the wall of the stomach but no evidence of gastric perforation. The patient was treated non-operatively with antibiotics, bowel rest, serial abdominal exams, and upper endoscopy (EGD). DISCUSSION: EG has been associated with overall mortality rates exceeding 50%. Early recognition and administration of antibiotics is essential to reduce mortality risk. Indications for laparotomy include perforation or uncontrolled sepsis. CONCLUSION: EG can occur in diabetics with gastroparesis complicated by a bezoar and hyperemesis. Gastric pneumatosis is not an absolute indication for celiotomy as antibiotics and surgical vigilance may be appropriate and curative therapy.

Source: International Journal of Surgery Case Reports

DOI: 10.1016/j.ijscr.2011.12.002

Authors: James Iannuzzi, Thomas J. Watson, Virginia R. Litle

Institutions: University of Rochester Medicine, University of Rochester

Language: English

Topic: Abdominal vascular conditions and treatments

Subfield: Surgery

Field: Medicine

Domain: Health Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $2,090