A Case of Emphysematous Gastritis Managed With Conservative Treatment

Emphysematous gastritis is a rare condition associated with a high mortality rate. It is associated with various medications, chronic medical problems, and ingestions. Individuals can present with abdominal symptoms and even hemodynamic changes. Evaluating the patient with computed tomography (CT) imaging can show inflammation of the gastric wall and intramural gas. A conservative approach is often used to treat emphysematous gastritis, although surgical intervention may be necessary. Our case involves a 67-year-old male patient who presented with acute encephalopathy and bradycardia. He was noted to have epigastric tenderness, so non-contrast CT imaging of the abdomen and pelvis was performed. The imaging revealed emphysematous gastritis. Our patient was successfully managed with intravenous antibiotics, intravenous fluids, proton-pump inhibitors, and nasogastric decompression. His encephalopathy and other symptoms improved while inpatient, and he was discharged in stable condition.