Altered Mental Status After Esophagogastroduodenoscopy

Chest. 2021 Feb;159(2):e75-e79. doi: 10.1016/j.chest.2020.08.2098.

Abstract

A 79-year-old man with medical history of atrial fibrillation and esophageal cancer status post trans-hiatal esophageal resection and chemotherapy presented with altered mental status after outpatient esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD). One month before presentation, the patient was seen at another hospital with severe anemia and melena requiring transfusion of multiple units of RBCs. No endoscopy was performed during that admission, but his anticoagulation was held. After follow-up with his oncologist, he was referred for outpatient endoscopy. His esophagogastroduodenoscopy demonstrated an intact esophagogastric anastomosis as well as two gastric ulcers with no stigmata of recent bleeding. The patient was discharged to home in good condition with normal mental status. Several hours later, he developed a deteriorating level of consciousness, prompting presentation to the hospital.

Publication types

  • Case Reports
  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural

MeSH terms

  • Aged
  • Consciousness Disorders
  • Diagnosis, Differential
  • Endoscopy, Digestive System / adverse effects*
  • Esophageal Fistula / etiology*
  • Fistula / etiology*
  • Heart Atria*
  • Humans
  • Male