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Congenital bronchoesophageal fistula in an adult: a case report

Lei Su1, Xiu-Qin Wei, Xiu-Yi Zhi

  • 1Department of Thoracic Surgery, Xuan Wu Hospital of Capital University of Medical Science, No. 45 Changchun Street, Beijing 100053, China. drsulei@yahoo.com.cn

World Journal of Gastroenterology
|July 31, 2007
PubMed

Insights

Congenital bronchoesophageal fistula is rare in adults, presenting with cough and choking. This case highlights the need for considering this diagnosis in adults with unexplained respiratory issues.

Area of Science:

  • Medical Case Report
  • Gastroenterology
  • Pulmonology

Background:

  • Bronchoesophageal fistulas are typically diagnosed in neonates.
  • Congenital bronchoesophageal fistulas are exceptionally rare in the adult population.

Observation:

  • A 62-year-old man presented with severe coughing and choking episodes after liquid ingestion.
  • Diagnostic workup, including a barium esophagogram, confirmed a fistula between the esophagus and the right lower lobe bronchus.

Findings:

  • The case demonstrates a rare instance of congenital bronchoesophageal fistula in an adult.
  • Surgical intervention involving fistula division and resection was successfully performed.

Implications:

  • This case underscores the importance of considering congenital bronchoesophageal fistula in adults with unexplained respiratory symptoms.
  • Early diagnosis and surgical management can lead to favorable patient outcomes.

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