You see what you know … gas bubbles in the inferior vena cava, an unusual presentation of necrotizing soft tissue infection

Ultrasound Q. 2015 Jun;31(2):138-40. doi: 10.1097/RUQ.0000000000000120.

Abstract

Gas detected within the systemic circulation as an unexpected finding is a very rare phenomenon. A case of multiple bubbles within the inferior vena cava detected incidentally during a sonogram requested to assess for portal vein thrombosis is presented. These were eventually determined to be sequelae of a fatal, clinically silent necrotizing soft tissue infection. The differential diagnosis for gas within the inferior vena cava is reviewed, and teaching points that may help future patients are presented.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Diagnosis, Differential
  • Fatal Outcome
  • Gases*
  • Humans
  • Incidental Findings
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Soft Tissue Infections / diagnostic imaging*
  • Ultrasonography
  • Vena Cava, Inferior / diagnostic imaging*

Substances

  • Gases