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[The pneumoportogram, a rare finding in septicemia due to an intra-abdominal abscess]
L P Leenen1, C van der Werken, W Sanders
1Afd. Chirurgie, Sint Elisabeth Ziekenhuis, Tilburg.
Abstract:
A man aged 73 is described with radiologically revealed air in the portal vein, a peumoportogram, on the basis of intra-abdominal sepsis. Characteristic of this finding are the air shadows extending far into the periphery of the liver in contrast to an air cholangiogram. It is an ominous sign, mostly secondary to severe intra-abdominal pathology such as ischaemic bowel necrosis, peritonitis or abscesses. Treatment should be aimed at these causes. Prognosis depends on the underlying pathology.
Insights
Pneumoportography, or air in the portal vein, indicates severe intra-abdominal sepsis. This ominous sign requires prompt treatment of the underlying cause, such as bowel necrosis or abscesses, for a better prognosis.
Area of Science:
- Radiology
- Gastroenterology
- Abdominal Surgery
Background:
- Pneumoportography, characterized by air in the portal vein, is a rare radiological finding.
- It is often associated with severe intra-abdominal pathology.