Abstract

 

Pneumatosis intestinalis is a rare entity, characterized by multiple air cysts in the wall of the gastrointestinal tract. Free intraperitoneal air (gas) develops in pneumatosis intestinalis whenever one of the subserosal gas cysts ruptures. We present a case of pneumatosis intestinalis associated with massive peritoneal free air that mimicked intestinal perforation. This case highlights the importance of recognizing pneumatosis intestinalis as a cause of possible massive intraabdominal free air.

Key Words: Pneumatosis Intestinalis; Intestinal Perforation; Air Cyst.