Gastric emphysema with portal emphysema due to superior mesenteric artery syndrome developing septic shock: a case report

BACKGROUND: Superior mesenteric artery syndrome (SMAS) is often associated with gastric dilatation but, very rarely, it can be associated with gastric emphysema. In addition, there are few reported cases accompanied by septic shock. CASE PRESENTATION: A 64‐year‐old man was transferred to our hospital with vomiting and abdominal distention. He went into shock and showed impaired consciousness. Blood biochemistry tests showed elevated levels of C‐reactive protein. An abdominal computed tomography scan revealed a dilated stomach and proximal duodenum, and constriction of the third portion of the duodenum with gastric and portal emphysema. We thus diagnosed him with gastric and portal emphysema associated with SMAS that progressed to septic shock. We treated him conservatively by giving antibiotics and undertaking gastric drainage and feeding by way of the jejunum through a double elementary diet tube. CONCLUSION: This is the first report to describe a case of SMAS with gastric and portal emphysema that progressed to septic shock.