Abdominal tuberculosis in a child presenting with radiological evidence of pneumatosis intestinalis and portal venous gas

Pneumatosis intestinalis, in association with portal venous gas, is a rare finding in children and young adults. In radiological studies, it is characterized by gas-filled cysts within the bowel-wall. It is often a sign of the serious significant underlying illness and is associated with a poor prognosis. A case of pneumatosis intestinalis and portal venous gas associated with abdominal tuberculosis in a child is presented here. Despite responding well to anti-tubercular treatment, he died suddenly at home, two months after discharge. It is recommended that cases with pneumatosis intestinalis should be carefully observed, although symptoms appear to be improving.