Emphysematous Gastritis: A Case Series on a Rare but Critical Gastrointestinal Condition
Abeer Qasim, Shalini Penikelapate, Franklin Sosa, Abhilasha Jyala, Haider Ghazanfar, Harish Patel, Anil Dev
Abstract
Emphysematous gastritis (EG) is a rare and life-threatening condition characterized by gas-forming microorganisms causing gas to accumulate within the stomach wall. It has a high mortality rate and is associated with risk factors like gastroenteritis, alcohol use disorder, diabetes mellitus, renal failure, recent abdominal surgery, long-term corticosteroid use, and ingestion of corrosive agents. Diagnosis is challenging due to its rarity and nonspecific symptoms, including severe abdominal pain, coffee-ground emesis, fever, and signs of systemic infection. We present two cases of patients with signs and symptoms of EG, where prompt diagnosis and treatment were achieved, avoiding further complications. Surgical intervention was avoided due to the successful response to conservative treatment. These cases highlight the importance of early detection and intervention in improving patient outcomes and preventing complications associated with EG.