Introduction.

Cystic pneumatosis intestinalis is described as the presence of gas within the intestinal wall. It is a rare entity, with an incidence of 0.03% in the global population. It appears with a predilection in the male gender after 45 years of age and is located mainly in the small intestine (42%) and the colon. It can be associated with several conditions that sometimes require surgical management.

Clinical case.

The case of a 75-year-old man with a history of high blood pressure is presented, who consulted for a 15-day history consisting of abdominal distention, pain and constipation. In the emergency room, a chest x-ray was requested, which showed pneumoperitoneum and several air-fluid levels. The surgeon on call considered a possible rupture of the hollow viscus.

Results.

The patient was taken to exploratory laparotomy, where intestinal cystic pneumatosis and a greatly enlarged stomach were identified, compatible with gastroparesis. As a result of the treatment provided, the patient had a satisfactory outcome, achieving medical discharge, supported with basic nursing care.

Conclusions.

Although cases of intestinal cystic pneumatosis have an unusual presentation, it can be found in patients with imaging findings of pneumoperitoneum. Therefore, a thorough analysis of each patient must be carried out and the case individualized for the correct diagnosis.

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