EMPHYSEMATOUS GASTRITIS – A RARE CAUSE OF PORTO-MESENTERIC VENOUS GAS

Abstract

Porto-mesenteric venous gas is an ominous radiologic sign. It is associated with severe intra-abdominal diseases that often require surgical management. In this case report, we present a 66-year old male who was brought to our Emergency Department for multiple episodes of vomiting and non-bloody diarrhea. Computed tomography of the abdomen showed porto-mesenteric venous gas due to emphysematous gastritis. He subsequently developed multi-organ failure from Klebsiella pneumoniae septicemia but made a full recovery after a prolonged course of supportive therapy and systemic antibiotics in the Intensive Care Unit. This case report highlights why it is clinically important and relevant for emergency physicians to be aware of this rare clinical condition associated with high mortality rate.

Keywords

• Abdominal Pain
• Computed Tomography
• Emphysematous Gastritis

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