Emphysematous cystitis successfully treated with hyperbaric oxygen therapy: case report

Emphysematous cystitis is an uncommon acute infection of the underlying bladder musculature and mucosa, caused by gas-producing organisms. Here we describe an 87-year-old woman with diabetes mellitus and emphysematous cystitis who was successfully treated with hyperbaric oxygen (HBO2) therapy. Her predisposition of diabetes and infection with gas-producing bacteria was considered to precede the development of emphysematous cystitis. Computed tomography revealed gas accumulation in the bladder wall and lumen. Antibiotics and HBO2 therapy were administered. HBO2 therapy may be beneficial due to the improvement in oxygenation of the tissues affected by the disease. HBO2 is a useful adjunct therapy for the management of severe emphysematous cystitis.