Korean J Leg Med.  2003 Oct;27(2):78-81.

Aortoesophageal Fistula and Sudden Death: A Report of a Case and Review of the Literature

• Lee SY
• Jung JJ
• Kim JH
• Seo JS

Abstract

Aortoesophageal fistula is a rare but fatal cause of upper gastrointestinal bleeding. Sign and symptoms of gastrointestinal hemorrhage followed by sudden collapse hours to days later prompt consideration of an aortoesophageal fistula. So sudden and unexpected deaths occur in usually hospitalized patient with a diagnosis of potentially lethal disease has never been made. And most death cases of aortoesophageal fistula have an actual or potential medicolegal aspect. We report a case of aortoesophageal fistula with the discussion of the etiology, symptoms and diagnosis of aortoesophageal fistula.

Keyword

Aortoesophageal fistula; Sudden death

MeSH Terms

Death, Sudden*
Diagnosis
Fistula*
Gastrointestinal Hemorrhage
Hemorrhage
Humans