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Fatal air embolus associated with pneumatosis cystoides intestinalis
The American Journal of Forensic Medicine and Pathology
|March 1, 1982
Abstract:
A case of fatal air embolism caused by pneumatosis cystoides intestinalis is presented. To our knowledge, there has been no previous report of fatal air embolism associated with this disease. The underlying pathology was not known premortem and the finding of air both in the mesenteric venous bed and in the right side of the heart is consistent with a collateralizing phenomenon due to portal vein obstruction.
Insights
A rare case of fatal air embolism linked to pneumatosis cystoides intestinalis is detailed. This study highlights a previously unreported cause of air embolism in this condition, suggesting portal vein obstruction as a potential cause.
Area of Science:
- Gastroenterology
- Vascular Surgery
- Pathology
Background:
- Pneumatosis cystoides intestinalis is a rare condition characterized by gas-filled cysts in the intestinal wall.
- Air embolism is a serious vascular complication that can be life-threatening.
Observation:
- This report presents a unique case of fatal air embolism directly resulting from pneumatosis cystoides intestinalis.
- The patient's premortem condition did not reveal the underlying pathology leading to the embolism.
Findings:
- Autopsy revealed gas in the mesenteric venous bed and the right side of the heart.
- This finding suggests a collateralizing phenomenon secondary to portal vein obstruction as the cause of air embolism.
Implications:
- This case expands the known complications of pneumatosis cystoides intestinalis, including potentially fatal air embolism.
- It underscores the importance of considering vascular complications in patients with this condition, especially when portal vein obstruction is suspected.