Pneumatosis of the esophagus and intestines with portal venous air: a rare presentation

Pneumatosis intestinalis is a radiographic finding that represents a spectrum of conditions ranging from benign disease to abdominal sepsis and death. Along with portal venous gas, it is generally considered an ominous sign prompting emergency operative intervention. We report a rare case showing that nonoperative therapy can be considered in a seriously ill patient with esophageal, gastric and portal venous air.