Abstract

Emphysematous gastritis is a rare disease characterized by air in the wall of the stomach due to gas-forming microorganisms. This lethal entity was first described by Fraenkel in 1889. Forty-six cases have been reported so far in the literature. The predisposing factors include corrosive ingestion, immunocompromized state, alcohol abuse, cancer, diabetes and so on. Computed tomography is the procedure of choice for early diagnosis. Only prompt diagnosis and treatment can avoid mortality. Initial antibiotic therapy should cover gram-negative organisms and anaerobes. We report a case of emphysematous gastritis in a 41-year-old man with Klatskin's tumor. (Korean J Gastrointest Endosc 2004;28:34⁣38)

• Keywords: Emphysematous gastritis