A diabetic patient with cystitis emphysematosa

: In a woman aged 80 years arriving in the Emergency Room with progressive malaise, anorexia and somnolence, a large resistance was found in the lower abdomen, which proved to be due to cystitis emphysematosa. The patient was known to suffer from non-insulin dependent diabetes mellitus. Imaging revealed a large accumulation of gas in the urinary bladder, which was treated successfully with catheterization and antibiotics. Cystitis emphysematosa is a rare condition, characterized by collection of gas in the bladder and bladder wall and brought about by gas-forming micro-organisms that decompose glucose. In patients with diabetes mellitus optimal regulation of the blood glucose levels, with a view to preventing glycosuria, is a condition of speedy recovery. Although cases with a fatal outcome have been reported, the prognosis in general is favourable.