Pneumorrhachis with pneumocranium: an unusual complication of intra-abdominal sepsis

Abstract

We present this unusual case of a 60-year-old gentleman who presented with meningism and reduced conscious level. Imaging demonstrated a perforated sigmoid colon with retroperitoneal air associated with pneumorrhachis and pneumocranium. He required a Hartmann's procedure and broad spectrum intra-thecal antibiotics which led to resolution of the pneumorrhachis and pneumocranium.

Key words:

• Pneumorrhachis
• pneumocranium
• intraspinal air
• spinal canal
• abdominal sepsis

Declaration of interest: The authors report no conflicts of interest. The authors alone are responsible for the content and writing of the paper.