Emphysematous cystitis: a case report and literature review

Abstract

Emphysematous cystitis (EC), a rare form of cystitis, is often an incidental radiological finding but it can be associated with diffuse abdominal or suprapubic pain. The clinical course can vary from asymptomatic infection to fulminant sepsis. We present the case of a 79-year-old woman with diffuse abdominal pain, back pain accompanied with low-grade fevers, urinary frequency, urinary urgency, and emesis who was ultimately found to have emphysematous cystitis. A review of the etiology, pathogenesis, diagnosis and treatment options follows.