Emphysematous hepatitis with successful treatments: A rare case report.

RATIONALE

Emphysematous hepatitis (EH) is a rare and fulminant gas-forming liver infection. Only 3 patients were successfully treated. Diabetes mellitus and a history of digestive system cancer may predispose individuals to EH. Computed tomography (CT) findings support the diagnosis of EH and monitor progress.

PATIENT CONCERNS

A 48-year-old man with diabetes presented with nausea, vomiting (gastric contents) and diarrhea. Laboratory test results revealed elevated levels of inflammatory indicators and abnormal liver function. CT showed a large-scale air collection with some remaining parenchymal debris in the left lobe of the liver. Remarkably, no fluid was observed inside the lesion.

DIAGNOSE

The abdominal CT features and laboratory examination results rationalized the diagnosis of EH.

INTERVENTIONS AND OUTCOMES

The patient finally recovered from this severe disease through a series of effective treatments, including strict glucose control, sensitive antibiotic therapy, and subsequent percutaneous drainage.

LESSONS

EH generally deteriorates rapidly and eventually leads to death. This case will raise awareness of the rare and severe disease, strengthen diagnostic capacities, and provide advice to treat it.