[Diagnostic, prognostic and therapeutic problems of cystic pneumatosis of the colon].

Two cases of cystic pneumatosis of the colon raised clinical problems that were mainly concerned with the diagnostic difficulties posed by this disease. These can only be solved by correct employment of radiology and endoscopy. Reference is made to the proper therapeutic approach, which must be moderate and conservative in all cases. An account is given of the pathogenesis of this form and support is expressed for the most commonly held theory, namely that mechanical factors are responsible for the penetration of air into the wall of the intestine.