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Updated: Jun 5, 2026
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An Ivor Lewis Esophagectomy Designed to Minimize Anastomotic Complications and Optimize Conduit Function
Published on: April 17, 2020
[Acute esophageal necrosis: an unusual entity]
Silvana E Pramparo1, Pablo M Ruiz, Rogelio Flores Valencia
1Servicio de Clínica Médica, Hospital Regional Río Gallegos. silvapramparo@hotmail.com
Medicina
|December 18, 2010
Summary
Acute esophageal necrosis (AEN), or black esophagus, is a rare condition often presenting with upper gastrointestinal bleeding. Early diagnosis and consideration of AEN are crucial, especially in elderly patients with comorbidities.
Area of Science:
- Gastroenterology
- Pathology
Background:
- Acute esophageal necrosis (AEN), also known as black esophagus, is a rare clinical entity.
- It is characterized by significant morbidity and mortality, often linked to underlying patient conditions.
Observation:
- A case report details an 80-year-old male experiencing upper gastrointestinal bleeding.
- The patient developed symptoms consistent with AEN following hypotensive episodes.
Findings:
- Endoscopic examination revealed a distinct black discoloration of the distal esophagus.
- Histological confirmation supported the diagnosis of esophageal necrosis.
- Common symptoms include hematemesis and melena, present in over 70% of cases.
Implications:
- Recognizing AEN is critical for timely diagnosis, particularly in elderly patients with comorbidities and upper GI bleeding.
- The condition carries a high mortality rate, often reflecting the patient's overall health status.
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