Intramural esophageal dissection diagnosed on transabdominal ultrasonography

Jpn J Radiol. 2015 Dec;33(12):764-8. doi: 10.1007/s11604-015-0488-0. Epub 2015 Oct 22.

Abstract

Intramural esophageal dissection (IED) is an uncommon yet important clinical entity characterized by a rupture or fissure in the esophageal submucosal layer. IED could occur spontaneously or secondary to direct extrinsic injury to the esophageal mucosa. Traditionally, IED has been diagnosed on the swallowing study using water-soluble contrast agents or barium. For alternative diagnostic modalities, upper gastrointestinal endoscopy and chest computed tomography have been frequently performed. However, to the best of our knowledge, the transabdominal ultrasonography (USG) appearance of IED has not been reported in the literature yet. We report an interesting case of IED, which was initially diagnosed on the transabdominal USG.

Keywords: Dissection; Esophagus; Transabdominal; Ultrasonography.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Esophageal Diseases / diagnostic imaging*
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Rupture, Spontaneous / diagnostic imaging
  • Ultrasonography