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Pneumatosis Intestinalis in Adults: An Increasingly Emerging Threat
Mahesh Jadhav1, Ekta Desai, Vinay Badangi
1Department of General Surgery, Dr. D. Y. Patil Medical College, Hospital and Research Centre, Pune, Maharashtra, India.
Annals of African Medicine
|August 6, 2026
Summary
Pneumatosis intestinalis, a rare gastrointestinal condition, can present with pneumoperitoneum. This case shows that clinical stability is key, as conservative management can lead to favorable outcomes without surgery.
Area of Science:
- Gastroenterology
- Radiology
- Surgical Case Reports
Background:
- Pneumatosis intestinalis (PI) is a rare condition involving gas cysts in the GI tract.
- Presentations vary from benign to critical, requiring careful evaluation.
- Pneumoperitoneum, free air in the abdomen, often indicates surgical emergency.
Purpose of the Study:
- To report a case of pneumatosis intestinalis presenting with pneumoperitoneum.
- To emphasize the importance of clinical correlation in managing pneumoperitoneum.
- To highlight conservative management as a viable option for select cases.
Main Methods:
- Case report of a 23-year-old male with abdominal distension and constipation.
- Diagnostic imaging revealed pneumoperitoneum.
- Clinical assessment focused on patient stability.
Main Results:
- Despite imaging findings of pneumoperitoneum, the patient remained clinically stable.
- Conservative management was initiated.
- The patient experienced a favorable outcome with resolution of symptoms.
Conclusions:
- Not all instances of pneumoperitoneum necessitate immediate surgical intervention.
- Clinical correlation is crucial for determining the appropriate management strategy for pneumoperitoneum.
- Conservative treatment can be effective in stable patients with pneumatosis intestinalis.
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