Massive gastric distension in acute pancreatitis--a report of two cases.

Massive gastric distension was diagnosed in 2 patients with acute pancreatitis. Both showed signs of severe peripheral circulatory failure, and responded well to intravenous fluid replacement and nasogastric aspiration. A review of the literature revealed only 2 previously reported cases. The possible mechanisms linking the pathogenesis of these 2 conditions are discussed.