Bronchoesophageal fistula: An unusual manifestation of lung cancer. (2022)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Smith, Chelsea; Bannon, Mark; Ashraf, Adrita; Kaushik, Prashant; Marak, Creticus
• Is Part Of: Respiratory medicine case reports. Volume 37(2022)
• Publication Date: 2022
• Subjects: Bronchoesophageal -- Fistula -- Lung cancer -- Aspiration -- Stent -- Chemotherapy; Respiratory organs -- Diseases -- Periodicals; Chest -- Diseases -- Periodicals; Respiratory Tract Diseases -- Periodicals; Respiratory System -- Periodicals; Chest -- Diseases; Respiratory organs -- Diseases; Electronic journals; Periodicals; 616.2
• DOI: 10.1016/j.rmcr.2022.101634
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 2213-0071

Abstract

Abstract: Bronchoesophageal fistula (BEF) is a rare condition caused by a fistulous connection between the bronchus and the esophagus. BEF can be acquired or congenital; congenital BEFs are rarely encountered in adults. Acquired BEF can be due to either a benign or a malignant process. Acquired BEF due to primary lung cancer is a life-threatening and usually a terminal complication. Unlike tracheoesophageal fistula, this condition is much rarer. Patients usually present with symptoms related to recurrent aspiration. Barium esophagogram is the initial diagnostic modality of choice. Treatment is primarily palliative. We are presenting a case of a bronchoesophageal fistula caused by non-small cell lung cancer that was successfully treated with concurrent chemoradiation therapy.