BCM
Gastroenterology Grand Rounds - Take Home Lessons
The main lessons to take home concerning this case
are:
1. Pneumatosis Intestinalis (PI) is often discovered
incidentally after a radiographic examination or during surgery.
It can also be noted endoscopically.
2. It is a cause of "benign pneumoperitoneum"
characterized by free air in the peritoneal cavity without peritoneal signs
on physical exam.
3. It is rare but may be associated with a wide range
of common conditions.
4. Hyperbaric oxygen therapy results in symptomatic relief
and treatment.
5. The exact etiology behind pneumatosis intestinalis
remains unknown.
