COVID-19-induced Esophageal Necrosis Requiring Emergent Total Esophagectomy in a Vaccinated Patient

Am Surg. 2023 Nov;89(11):4999-5001. doi: 10.1177/00031348231183125. Epub 2023 Jun 9.

Abstract

Acute esophageal necrosis may be a potential complication of Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19). COVID-19 has been associated with a variety of sequelae, including acute respiratory distress syndrome, myocarditis, and thromboembolic events. Here, we present a case of a 43-year-old male who was admitted for acute necrotizing pancreatitis and found to have COVID-19 pneumonia. He subsequently developed acute esophageal necrosis requiring a total esophagectomy. Currently, there are at least five other reported cases of esophageal necrosis with concomitant COVID-19 infection. This case is the first requiring esophagectomy. Future studies may establish esophageal necrosis as a known complication of COVID-19.

Keywords: esophagus/foregut; thoracic surgery.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • COVID-19* / complications
  • Esophageal Diseases* / etiology
  • Esophagectomy / adverse effects
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Necrosis / etiology
  • Necrosis / surgery