Contribution of computed tomography with oral media contrast to the diagnosis of esophago-pericardial fistula

Clin Imaging. 2006 Sep-Oct;30(5):347-9. doi: 10.1016/j.clinimag.2006.04.001.

Abstract

The esophago-pericardial fistula is a very rare and usually fatal complication of esophageal cancers. We report a case of a 56-year-old man who presented with chest pain 1 month after concurrent radiochemotherapy for squamous cell esophageal carcinoma. Thoracic computed tomography (CT) with oral iodinated media contrast revealed esophago-pericardial fistula visualizing the fistulous tract. We conclude that CT with oral contrast media may be the first imaging technique of choice to confirm the diagnosis of esophago-pleural fistula.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Administration, Oral
  • Contrast Media / administration & dosage
  • Esophageal Fistula / diagnostic imaging*
  • Esophageal Fistula / etiology
  • Esophageal Neoplasms / complications
  • Fatal Outcome
  • Fistula / diagnostic imaging*
  • Fistula / etiology
  • Heart Diseases / diagnostic imaging*
  • Heart Diseases / etiology
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Pleural Effusion / diagnostic imaging
  • Pneumopericardium / diagnostic imaging*
  • Tomography, X-Ray Computed / methods*

Substances

  • Contrast Media