Boerhaave syndrome

Case contributed by Ahmed Abdrabou
Diagnosis certain

Presentation

Recurrent vomiting followed by severe chest pain and developed pneumothorax

Patient Data

Age: 50 years
Gender: Female
Fluoroscopy

Esophageal perforation with leakage of contrast media to the posterior aspect of the left pleural space. Also surgical emphysema and intercostal tubes are seen.

Case Discussion

Spontaneous esophageal perforation that occurs secondary to forceful vomiting is called Boerhaave syndrome. Esophageal tear is usually located in the posterior aspect of the distal esophagus. As a result of tear, associated pneumothorax and pneumomediastinum developed.

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