Pneumatosis Intestinalis Due to COVID-19 Infection in Kidney Transplant Recipient: A Case Report

BACKGROUND: Pneumatosis intestinalis (PI) is a rare condition usually occurring among adults who have undergone solid organ transplant and are taking steroid therapy. The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) virus uses angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 in gastrointestinal epithelium as a receptor for entry process. Due to the steroid intake, the COVID-19 virus is present in the patient's gastrointestinal tract for extended period of time. It may therefore increase the possibility of PI in such patients. It is usually asymptomatic, with a clinical spectrum ranging from indolent to life-threatening. Unfortunately, there are no algorithms concerning diagnosis and treatment of PI. AIM OF STUDY: The aim of this study is to highlight the problem of PI induced by COVID-19, especially in high-risk groups such as solid organs recipients. CONCLUSION: On the basis of the presented case of a severe course of COVID-19–induced PI, we conclude that laparotomy with bowel resection can be a feasible and a safe option for treatment.