Emphysematous gastritis: a case report and a review of literature.
BACKGROUND
Gas is rarely found within the viscera outside the lumen of the gastrointestinal tract. Emphysematous gastritis is a rare form of infection of the stomach wall by gas producing organisms.


METHODS
A 45-year-old Chinese lady underwent hepatectomy for hepatocellular carcinoma. Postoperatively, she turned septic and encephalopathic with worsening liver function. Computed tomography scan revealed a thickened, oedematous stomach wall with air pockets within.


METHODS
The patient was started on a course of broad spectrum antibiotics.


RESULTS
She responded and was discharged well.


CONCLUSIONS
Emphysematous gastritis is a rare condition with high mortality. There is however, still no preferable approach of treatment despite therapeutic advances.
Loi
Tsuan-Hao
TH
Department of Surgery, National University Hospital, Singapore. tsuanhao@yahoo.com.sg
See
Ju-Yaw
JY
Diddapur
Ravishankar K
RK
Issac
John R
JR
D000900:Anti-Bacterial Agents / Q000627:therapeutic use; D004646:Emphysema / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging; D005260:Female; D005756:Gastritis / Q000188:drug therapy / Q000473:pathology*; D006801:Humans; D000077731:Meropenem; D008875:Middle Aged; D011169:Portal Vein; D011859:Radiography; D013845:Thienamycins / Q000627:therapeutic use; D014463:Ultrasonography; D020246:Venous Thrombosis / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging
D000900:Anti-Bacterial Agents; D013845:Thienamycins; D000077731:Meropenem