Emphysematous Gastritis: A Case Report and a Review of Literature

INTRODUCTION: 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. CLINICAL PICTURE: 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. TREATMENT: The patient was started on a course of broad spectrum antibiotics. OUTCOME: She responded and was discharged well. CONCLUSION: Emphysematous gastritis is a rare condition with high mortality. There is however, still no preferable approach of treatment despite therapeutic advances.