Gastric infarction associated with septic shock and high-dose vasopressor use.

Gastric infarction is rare, owing to the extensive collateral circulation of the stomach. A case of gastric infarction occurring in a patient with septic shock secondary to pneumonia is presented. The aetiology, diagnosis and therapy of gastric infarction are discussed, with consideration of the role of sepsis and vasopressors in pathogenesis and the concept of splanchnic resuscitation in prevention of the condition.