Delayed diagnosis of purulent pericarditis caused by esophagopericardial fistula by computed tomography scan and echocardiography

Eur J Cardiothorac Surg. 2001 Dec;20(6):1267-9. doi: 10.1016/s1010-7940(01)01027-2.

Abstract

We report a case of esophagopericardial fistula with subsequent purulent pericarditis that was diagnosed with computed tomography and echocardiography. In a patient with non-specific chest pain and vague past history, serial echocardiography demonstrated rapid aggravation of pyopneumopericardium and chest CT scan showed a foreign body that caused the fistula in the esophageal wall. Removal of a piece of fish bone, closure of the fistula, and creation of a pericardial window for continuous drainage were performed through a low lateral thoracotomy.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Echocardiography
  • Esophageal Fistula / complications*
  • Esophageal Fistula / etiology
  • Esophagus
  • Fistula / complications*
  • Fistula / etiology
  • Foreign Bodies
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Pericarditis / diagnosis*
  • Pericarditis / etiology
  • Pericardium*
  • Suppuration
  • Tomography, X-Ray Computed