Pneumatosis cystoides intestinalis presenting as pneumoperitoneum in a patient with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease

Pneumatosis is always an alarming sign that may result from life-threatening bowel ischaemia and infarction; however, benign intramural gas can also result from a variety of secondary conditions including chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Pneumoperitoneum and pneumoretroperitoneum can be seen with both entities. Therefore, thorough discussions with the referring clinicians regarding the patient’s medical history, clinical examination and laboratory results are mandatory. Benign causes can be managed conservatively, however, emergency exploratory laparotomy is often required in suspected life-threatening conditions. Misinterpretation of this finding can lead to incorrect diagnosis and unnecessary surgery.