Pneumatosis intestinalis in a patient treated with a glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonist and prednisone
Abstract
Glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1RAs), widely prescribed for diabetes and weight loss, are well-known for their side effects. We present a case report of elderly, medically complex patient on a GLP-1RA and prednisone therapy who presented to the emergency department with abdominal pain and the radiographic finding of pneumatosis intestinalis (PI) but was found to have healthy bowel on exploratory laparotomy. This case is the second report of PI in a patient taking a GLP-1RA. It highlights the importance for clinicians to recognize non-emergent causes of PI-including the potential contributory role of corticosteroids, particularly in patients with multiple comorbidities to avoid unnecessary surgical intervention.
Fields of Study & Subjects
Abdominal vascular conditions and treatments
Pancreatitis Pathology and Treatment
Potassium and Related Disorders
Publication details
- Journal / source
- JCEM Case Reports
- Publisher
- The Endocrine Society
- Volume
- 4
- Issue
- 3
- Pages
- luag019–luag019
- Publication date
- 22 January 2026
- Language
- EN