A Case of Acute Emphysematous Pancreatitis

Emphysematous infections of the abdomen are potentially life-threatening conditions that require aggressive medical and surgical management. Emphysematous pancreatitis is an uncommon disease that presents as acute pancreatitis with intra-parenchymal gas at the time of diagnosis. Traditionally, emphysematous pancreatitis is an indication for surgical intervention. However, a few cases of emphysematous pancreatitis, managed successfully without surgical debridement have been reported. We present a case of emphysematous pancreatitis managed medically without surgical debridement in a 56-year-old male. (Korean J Med 2012;83:485-489)