Idiopathic spontaneous pneumoperitoneum

Spontaneous pneumoperitoneum is the presence of free air in the peritoneum without evidence of any perforation of hollow viscera. The usual presentation includes acute abdominal pain with leukocytosis and elevated inflammatory markers. Here we present a case of spontaneous pneumoperitoneum occurring recurrently in a 58-year-old man with inclusion body myositis and hypertension who presented with cellulitis of both legs. Abdominal computed tomography demonstrated retroperitoneal free air; however, colonoscopy, esophagogastroduodenoscopy, and a prior laparoscopy did not demonstrate any perforation of hollow viscera. Conservative management with antibiotics and symptom control with antiemetics and pain medicines led to clinical improvement, and the patient was discharged home in stable condition.