P-EGS15 Gastric pneumatosis in an elderly patient with recurrence of gastric volvulus

Abstract

Abstract Background Gastric pneumatosis (GP), defined as the presence of air in the gastric wall, is a rare CT finding. It is associated with a spectrum of conditions which can range from benign and self-limiting to severe with high mortality rate. A gastric volvulus occurs with a rotation of 180 degrees or more of the stomach around its longitudinal or transverse axis. It is a rare event, and can culminate in obstruction, strangulation, ischaemia and necrosis. We present a case of gastric pneumatosis in a patient suffering with hiatus hernia and a history of recurrent gastric volvuli. Methods An 83-year-old man presented with a history of vomiting and abdominal pain. His background included a known hiatus hernia with previous episodes of gastric volvulus. A computer tomography (CT) showed a gastric volvulus with air in the gastric wall, in the intrahepatic biliary tree and porta hepatis. Conservative management was pursued with IV PPI and antibiotics, keeping the patient nil by mouth. He improved clinically and a repeat CT scan showed regression of the gastric pneumatosis, with resorption of gas in the porta hepatis and regression of the pneumobilia. He was discharged home 12 days after his initial presentation. Results Gastric pneumatosis (GP) is described as a rare finding that can occur in conditions such as gastric emphysema (GE) and emphysematous gastritis (EG). GE is described as a more benign condition, usually self-limiting which can be managed conservatively in most cases and rarely requires surgical interventions. EG is a more severe condition with a high mortality rate, and more aggressive treatment is advocated. The diagnostic process can be challenging but literature shows lactate, the presence of metabolic acidosis and peritonitis can help differentiating between the two clinical entities and choosing the appropriate management plan. Conclusions This case described a patient presenting with a gastric volvulus with the presence of gastric pneumatosis, pneumobilia and portal venous gas. These findings were diagnosed as gastric ischaemia secondary to volvulus. In this case the patient made a good recovery after being managed conservatively. GP is a rare CT entity which can be found in the presence of GE or EG. Differentiating between the two can be a challenging process, aided by clinical examination as well as blood test results. Achieving the right diagnosis is key as radical surgical intervention is not always needed to guarantee a good outcome.