[A rare case of spontaneous massive pneumoperitoneum]

Area of Science:

• Gastroenterology
• Surgical Diagnostics

Background:

• Spontaneous pneumoperitoneum is a rare condition with free air in the peritoneal cavity.
• The etiology of spontaneous pneumoperitoneum is often unclear, posing diagnostic difficulties.

Observation:

• A case of massive spontaneous pneumoperitoneum was detected via imaging.
• Extensive clinical, biological, radiological, and laparoscopic evaluations failed to identify a definitive cause.

Findings:

• The presented case underscores the diagnostic challenges of spontaneous pneumoperitoneum.
• Laparoscopy proved effective in visually diagnosing the absence of hollow organ perforation.

Implications:

• Accurate knowledge of spontaneous pneumoperitoneum can prevent unnecessary and aggressive surgical interventions.
• Laparoscopy offers a minimally invasive approach for diagnosing unclear cases of pneumoperitoneum.