Septic shock caused by emphysematous hepatitis complicated with intracranial infection

Purpose: Emphysematous hepatitis is an uncommon and life-threatening hepatic infection, characterized by the presence of gas within the liver and high mortality. There are few reports of this condition. Method: We report a case of septic shock caused by emphysematous hepatitis complicated with intracranial infection, and review the current literature on emphysematous hepatitis. Results: A 57-year-old male with uncontrolled diabetes mellitus developed emphysematous hepatitis complicated with intracranial infection, which progressed to septic shock. The patient was treated with antibiotics and received percutaneous liver puncture drainage early and was discharged preferably in remission. From the literature review, we found 16 previously published cases of emphysematous hepatitis. Conclusion: Given our experience and the literature review, percutaneous liver puncture drainage or surgical treatment in the early stage may be beneficial to patients with emphysematous hepatitis.