# When the Stomach Takes a Vacation: The Unseen Battles of Gastroparesis

## TL;DR

This paper discusses a case where a man with multiple health issues developed gastroparesis, highlighting the importance of early diagnosis to improve patient outcomes.

## Contribution

The novelty lies in emphasizing the critical need for early detection and comprehensive evaluation of gastroparesis in complex patient cases.

## Key findings

- The patient's gastroparesis was diagnosed through CT and endoscopy, revealing gastric distention and pyloric stenosis.
- Despite treatment, the patient's death from aspiration highlights the risks of undiagnosed or untreated gastroparesis.
- The case underscores the importance of timely diagnosis and management to reduce morbidity and mortality.

## Abstract

Gastroparesis is a syndrome characterised by delayed gastric emptying that is usually idiopathic, diabetic, or iatrogenic. This underdiagnosed disease has a substantial influence on the quality of life of its patients. We present the case of an 86-year-old man with dementia, benign prostatic hyperplasia, and gastroesophageal reflux disease who developed symptoms of gastroparesis during a lengthy hospital stay. Computed tomography (CT) and upper digestive endoscopy demonstrated gastric distention and pyloric stenosis. Despite cautious treatment and eventual pyloric dilation, the patient died from aspiration due to refractory respiratory failure. This example emphasises the need for early detection and thorough examination of gastroparesis to optimise patient outcomes and reduce morbidity and mortality.