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Published on: June 23, 2023
Black esophagus associated with alcohol abuse
Jae Won Hong1, Seung Up Kim, Ha Na Park
1Department of Internal Medicine, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea.
Black esophagus, a rare condition causing black esophageal mucosa, was observed in an alcoholic patient. Prompt supportive care led to remarkable healing without complications.
Area of Science:
- Gastroenterology
- Internal Medicine
Background:
- Black esophagus is a rare esophageal condition characterized by black mucosa.
- It is typically caused by acute esophageal necrosis.
Purpose of the Study:
- To report a case of black esophagus in an alcoholic patient.
- To describe the endoscopic findings and treatment outcomes.
Main Methods:
- Case report of an 85-year-old male patient with hematemesis.
- Diagnostic upper gastrointestinal endoscopy with biopsies.
- Treatment with proton-pump inhibitor, sucralfate, and total parenteral nutrition.
Main Results:
- Endoscopy revealed black-colored mucosa in the distal esophagus.
- Biopsies confirmed esophageal necrosis with no viable cells.
- Follow-up endoscopy showed significant healing of the esophageal wall.
Conclusions:
- Black esophagus can occur in alcoholic patients.
- Supportive care is effective in managing black esophagus and promoting healing.
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