[Air in the portal vein and necrosis of the ventricle].

BACKGROUND

Air in the portal vein is a serious sign, usually caused by enteric necrosis.

METHODS

The case report presents a 69-year-old male who died shortly after arrival in our department.

RESULTS

Abdominal CT scan showed hepatic portal venous gas, and thrombi in the superior mesenteric artery, the coeliac trunk and in the left iliac artery. Autopsy revealed a necrotic stomach but viable small bowel.

INTERPRETATION: Differential diagnoses are discussed, and we conclude that the patient most probably died from ischaemic necrosis. In severely ill patients, hepatic portal venous gas is an indication for urgent laparotomy.