Open AccessPneumatosis cystoides intestinalis after fluorouracil chemotherapy for rectal cancer
Author(s) -
Kenji Mimatsu,
Takatsugu Oida,
Atsushi Kawasaki,
Hisao Kano,
Youichi Kuboi,
Osamu Aramaki,
Sadao Amano
Publication year - 2008
Publication title -
world journal of gastroenterology
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.427
H-Index - 155
eISSN - 2219-2840
pISSN - 1007-9327
DOI - 10.3748/wjg.14.3273
Subject(s) - medicine , pneumatosis cystoides intestinalis , laparotomy , chemotherapy , exploratory laparotomy , conventional pci , perforation , gastrointestinal perforation , fluorouracil , colorectal cancer , gastrointestinal tract , folfiri , abdominal pain , gastroenterology , colonoscopy , oxaliplatin , cancer , surgery , peritonitis , materials science , myocardial infarction , punching , metallurgy
Pneumatosis cystoides intestinalis (PCI) is a relatively rare condition characterized by intraluminal gas in the gastrointestinal tract. Several chemotherapeutic agents have been reported to be associated with PCI, although fluorouracil-related PCI is extremely rare. We report a case of a 76-year old man who received adjuvant chemotherapy for rectal cancer with fluorouracil (FU) and leucovorin (LV). After 1 cycle of the treatment, he presented with diarrhea and abdominal pain. Abdominal radiogram revealed the presence of free air under the diaphragm and intramural gas in the intestine. Laparotomy was performed, showing a suspected diagnosis of perforation in the gastrointestinal tract. Intraoperative findings revealed penumatosis of the intestine without evidence of perforation. He was treated supportively and his symptoms improved. In conclusion, we should consider the possibility of PCI occurring in patients with malignancies during chemotherapy treatment.