pneumatosis intestinalis
Pronunciation: new-ma-TOE-sis in-test-in-AL-is
Radiographic finding of gas within the bowel wall, often associated with necrotizing enterocolitis or ischemia.
Full Definition
A radiographic finding characterized by the presence of gas within the wall of the intestine, appearing as linear or cystic lucencies that outline the bowel contour. While pathognomonic for pneumatosis, the finding can result from various causes including necrotizing enterocolitis, intestinal ischemia, inflammatory bowel disease, or benign conditions like pneumonia with bowel distension. In the pediatric population, particularly premature infants, pneumatosis is highly concerning for necrotizing enterocolitis and warrants immediate clinical correlation and often surgical consultation. The finding may be transient and can resolve with conservative management or progress to more serious complications.
Usage
Usage note: Always correlate with clinical findings as significance varies by patient population and underlying conditions.
In Context
- "The abdominal radiograph demonstrated pneumatosis intestinalis in the right lower quadrant concerning for necrotizing enterocolitis." — radiology report
- "Serial imaging showed resolution of pneumatosis intestinalis following conservative management with bowel rest." — progress note