Asymptomatic pneumatosis intestinalis following chemotherapy for B lymphoblastic leukemia with recurrent genetic abnormalities in an adolescent patient

Korean J Hematol. 2012 Mar;47(1):74-6. doi: 10.5045/kjh.2012.47.1.74. Epub 2012 Mar 28.

Abstract

Pneumatosis intestinalis (PI) is a rare condition characterized by multiple pneumocysts in the submucosa or subserosa of the bowel. Here, we report a rare case of asymptomatic PI after chemotherapy induction in an 18-yr-old man with B lymphoblastic leukemia with recurrent genetic abnormalities. The patient was treated conservatively and recovered without complications. The possibility of PI should be considered as a complication during or after chemotherapy for hematologic malignancies. Conservative treatment should be considered unless there are complications, including peritonitis, bowel perforation, and severe sepsis.

Keywords: B lymphoblastic leukemia with recurrent genetic abnormalities; Chemotherapy; Pneumatosis intestinalis.

Publication types

  • Case Reports