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Type B aortic dissection resulting in acute esophageal necrosis
Esther van de Wal-Visscher1, Grard A P Nieuwenhuijzen, Grard A P Nieuwenhuijsen
1Department of Intensive Care, Catharina Hospital, Eindhoven, The Netherlands. e.vandewal@alumni.maastrichtuniversity.nl
Annals of Vascular Surgery
|May 31, 2011
Summary
Acute esophageal necrosis (AEN) is a rare complication of aortic dissection, often fatal. This case highlights aortic dissection-induced thrombosis causing esophageal blood supply blockage, leading to AEN.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Gastroenterology
- Vascular Surgery
Background:
- Aortic dissection is a serious cardiovascular condition.
- Acute esophageal necrosis (AEN) is a rare but often fatal complication.
- Understanding the mechanisms linking aortic dissection to AEN is crucial.
Observation:
- A case of acute esophageal necrosis (AEN) in the intrathoracic esophagus is presented.
- The AEN was caused by extensive thrombosis within the false lumen of an aortic dissection.
- This thrombosis occluded blood flow to the intercostal arteries supplying the esophagus.
Findings:
- Aortic dissection can lead to AEN through arterial occlusion.
- Extrinsic compression of the esophageal vascular network by aortic pathology can also cause AEN.
- Esophagoscopy typically reveals a black, diffusely necrotic, and ulcerated esophageal mucosa in AEN.
Implications:
- This case underscores the rare but severe esophageal complications of aortic dissection.
- Early recognition and management of AEN in aortic dissection patients are critical.
- Further research into the pathogenesis and treatment of AEN secondary to aortic dissection is warranted.
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