Published online Oct 6, 2023. doi: 10.12998/wjcc.v11.i28.6943
Peer-review started: July 16, 2023
First decision: July 28, 2023
Revised: August 12, 2023
Accepted: September 11, 2023
Article in press: September 11, 2023
Published online: October 6, 2023
Processing time: 70 Days and 20.5 Hours
Emphysematous cystitis (EC) is a bladder condition commonly caused by gas-generating bacterial infections. Factors that increase the risk for developing this condition include female gender, age ≥ 60 years, and diabetes mellitus, glycosuria, and urinary stasis. The symptoms of EC often lack specificity, making diagnostic imaging techniques crucial for accurate identification of the condition.
This report presents an unusual case of EC that mimicked intestinal perforation. While it was initially challenging to differentiate between intestinal perforation and EC on admission, the patient managed to avoid unnecessary surgery and made a good recovery solely through antibiotic treatment.
Successful treatment of the patient described herein highlights the importance of accurately diagnosing EC, which can be difficult to differentiate from intestinal perforation.
Core Tip: Emphysematous cystitis (EC) is a rare form of complicated urinary tract infection characterized by gas within the bladder wall and lumen. Even with imaging examination(s), such as computed tomography, it can be difficult to differentiate between conditions when there is a significant amount of free air in the abdominal cavity, such as in cases of intestinal perforation and other diseases. Successful treatment of the patient described herein highlights the importance of accurately diagnosing EC, which can be difficult to differentiate from an intestinal perforation.