A Case Report of Ogilvie’s Syndrome in a 58-year-old Quadriplegic

Ogilvie’s syndrome (acute colonic pseudo-obstruction) is a rare disorder characterized by an acute dilation of the colon measuring greater than 10 centimeters. Common symptoms associated with Ogilvie’s include abdominal distension, abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, constipation, and diarrhea. This report presents an uncommon case of a quadriplegic presenting to the emergency department with complaints of abdominal distention. Computed tomography and radiographic imaging studies were consistent with Ogilvie’s syndrome. The patient was admitted to the hospital and started on stool softeners and bowel rest with resolution of symptoms. TOPICS: Ogilvie’s syndrome, quadriplegic, abdominal distension, colonic pseudo-obstruction.