Pneumatosis cystoides intestinalis. Treatment with oxygen via close-fitting mask
N. M. Simon, K. E. Nyman, M. B. Divertie, R. A. Rovelstad and J. E. King
Four patients with pneumatosis cystoides intestinalis were recently treated
with oxygen via a close-fitting mask. They responded initially to this
therapy, with cessation of all symptoms and, after seven days of treatment,
with return of proctoscopic and barium-contrast roentgenographic findings
in the colon to normal. However, the disease recurred in one of the four
patients after six months. There is a potential hazard of toxic effects
from oxygen, and this may be detected by frequent measurement of pulmonary
vital capacity. Our experience corroborates the efficacy of oxygen therapy
in the treatment of this disorder but we question its long-term
effectiveness in all cases.
