A rare case of pulmonary mucormycosis and broncho-esophageal fistula in a patient with poorly controlled diabetes.

Key Clinical Message: In patients with poorly controlled diabetes, early recognition of rare fungal infections like pulmonary mucormycosis, especially when presenting with unusual complications such as broncho-esophageal fistula, is critical. Prompt intervention with antifungal therapy and consideration for surgical debridement significantly impact outcomes. Multidisciplinary management is paramount for such complex cases. Abstract: Mucormycosis is a rare fungal infection caused by the Mucorales. This infection is mostly observed among those with poorly controlled diabetes or immunodeficiency. The most common presentation of the infection among those with poorly controlled diabetes is rhino-orbit-cerebral involvement. In this case report, we provide the history and outcome of a rare case of pulmonary mucormycosis in a patient with poorly controlled diabetes who was simultaneously diagnosed with broncho-esophageal fistula. Our patient was a 32-year-old male with a history of poorly controlled diabetes. Over the months, he had complained of productive coughs and dyspnea, which had lately been joined by dysphagia. He also claimed to have lost considerable weight (10 kg) during the previous 3 months. Barium swallow showed an abnormal flow of contrast between the bronchus and esophagus, suggesting a broncho-esophageal fistula. Computed tomography of the thorax revealed a broncho-esophageal fistula between the left main bronchus (LMB) and esophagus. He had a bronchoscopy the next day, which revealed necrosis and a broncho-esophageal fistula in the LMB. A bronchial biopsy showed typical hyphae with necrotic tissue, indicating mucormycosis. The patient's antimycotic medication (liposomal amphotericin) was started and a prompt surgery consult was ordered. The patient, however, passed away from massive hemoptysis. We described a rare case of pulmonary mucormycosis with broncho-esophageal fistula in a patient with poorly controlled diabetes. The rarity of this combination highlights the associated diagnostic and treatment hurdles. Early detection, antifungal medication, as soon as possible surgical debridement of involved tissues, and a multidisciplinary approach could improve patient outcomes.

A Successful Treatment of Broncho-Esophageal Fistula with Esophageal Stenting Using Direct Endoscopic Visualization.

Broncho-esophageal fistula (BEF) is a severe yet relatively rare connection between the bronchus and esophagus usually caused by esophageal and pulmonary malignancies. We present a case report of a 49-year-old man diagnosed with terminal lung carcinoma who developed a BEF. The thoracic computed tomography scan detected a mass in the left bronchi that partially covers and disrupts the bronchial contour in certain regions and extends to the esophageal wall. After thoroughly evaluating alternative treatment approaches, we opt for the stenting procedure due to the advanced stage of the tumor and the significantly diminished quality of life. The treatment involves the use of a partially covered metal stent that is known to exhibit lower potential to migrate. The treatment is highly successful, resulting in a significant enhancement of the patient's quality of life, a lengthening in his survival, and the ability to pursue additional palliative treatment options. In contrast to the typical prosthesis implantation, our procedure uses a direct endoscopic visualization for the proximal deployment of a partially covered stent, offering a cost-effective and radiation-free alternative that can be particularly beneficial for BEF patients in facilities without radiology services.

MSCT study for adult esophageal diverticulum with secondary broncho-esophageal fistula.

BACKGROUND: Broncho-esophageal fistula (BEF) secondary to esophageal diverticulum is a rare clinical condition, which is often misdiagnosed for a long time. The aim of our study is to summarize and clarify the advantages of MSCT in diagnosing BEF secondary to esophageal diverticulum. METHODS: We retrospectively analyzed patients clinically diagnosed with BEF from January 2005 to January 2022 at Jilin University First Hospital. Only those patients with BEF secondary to esophageal diverticulum and complete clinical data met our enrolled standard. All patients' clinicopathologic characteristics and MSCT features were systemically evaluated. RESULTS: 17 patients were eligible for our cohort study, including male 10 and female 7. The patient's mean age was 42.3 ± 12.5. The chronic cough occurred in all seventeen patients and bucking following oral fluid intake was documented in nine patients. MSCT distinctly suggested the fistulous tract between the bronchi and the esophagus in all patients. The mean diameter of the orifices in the wall of the esophagus was 4.40 ± 1.81 mm. The orifice in the midthoracic esophagus side was 15 cases and 2 cases at the lower thoracic esophagus. The involved bronchus included 13 cases at the right lower lobe bronchus, 1 at the right middle lobe bronchus and 3 at the left lower lobe bronchus. The contrast agent was observed in the pulmonary parenchyma in 10 of 13 patients who underwent esophagogram. No definite fistula was observed in 3 of 11 who underwent gastroscopy, while the intra-operative findings supported the existence of fistula. CONCLUSIONS: BEF secondary to esophageal diverticulum tends to occur between the midthoracic esophagus and the right lower lobe bronchus. Compared with esophagography and gastroscopy, MSCT shows more comprehensive information about the fistulous shape, size, course and lung involvement, which are helpful for establishing diagnosis and guiding subsequent treatment.

Broncho-esophageal fistula: When surgery and endoscopy fail, consider physiological lung exclusion.

We discuss the case of an esophageal cancer patient treated by chemo and radiotherapy complicated by an esophageal stenosis and an iatrogenic broncho-esophageal fistula. This latter was managed with multiple palliative stenting procedures and colonic surgical bypass. Despite a long disease free survival but decreased quality of life and frailty, we came to the proposal of an extremely unusual form of treatment - physiological lung exclusion, with clinical benefit and so far without any drawbacks related to the procedure.

Cardiac arrest due to massive aspiration from a broncho-esophageal fistula: A case report.

BACKGROUND: Tracheo and broncho esophageal fistulas and their potential complications in adults are seldom encountered in clinical practice but carries a significant morbidity and mortality. CASE SUMMARY: We present a case of a 39-year-old otherwise healthy man who presented to our hospital after ingestion of drain cleaner substance during a suicidal attempt. He unexpectedly suffered from cardiac arrest during his stay in the intensive care unit. The patient had developed extensive segmental trachea-broncho-esophageal fistulous tracks that led to a sudden and significant aspiration event of gastric and duodenal contents with subsequent cardiopulmonary arrest. Endoscopic evaluation of extension of fistulous track proved a slow and delayed progression of disease despite initial management with esophageal stenting for his caustic injury. CONCLUSION: The aim of this case presentation is to share with the reader the dire natural history of trachea-broncho-esophageal fistulas and its delayed progression. We aim to illustrate pitfalls in the endoscopic examination and provide further awareness on critical care monitoring and management strategies to reduce its morbidity and mortality.

A Malignant Connection: Bronchoesophageal-Pleural Fistula in an Elderly Farmer.

Bronchoesophageal-pleural fistula (BEPF) is a very rare entity that can present as a late manifestation of oesophageal malignancy. Here, we describe the case of an elderly farmer with no past medical history of note who presented with acute respiratory failure associated with a five-month history of dysphagia and weight loss. Computerised tomography of the thorax showed a connection between the oesophagus, bronchus and pleural space: a bronchoesophageal-pleural fistula. Ultrasound-guided thoracentesis was followed by chest drain insertion into an empyema containing food debris. Histopathological analysis of endoscopic biopsies confirmed an eroding squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) of the oesophagus. An oesophageal stent was inserted to seal off the fistula and broad-spectrum antibiotics were maximised. Ultimately, after four weeks in hospital, palliative therapy was initiated. BEPF remains a very rare and devastating complication of oesophageal malignancy. Endoscopic stenting may provide symptomatic relief.

A case of esophageal atresia with the bronchial-like lower esophagus which originates from the left lower lobe bronchus.

BACKGROUND: Esophageal atresia with or without a trachea-esophageal fistula occurs due to the failure of separation or incomplete development of the foregut. Therefore, esophageal atresia is often associated with various forms of tracheobronchial anomalies. We report an extremely rare case of esophageal atresia. CASE PRESENTATION: A female infant was born at 37 weeks of gestation and weighed 2596 g. A diagnosis of esophageal atresia and total anomalous pulmonary vein return type III were confirmed. The infant had respiratory distress that required tracheal intubation and ventilatory support soon after birth. Temporary banding of the gastroesophageal junction and gastrostomy were performed on the second day of life. However, her respiratory condition deteriorated due to atelectasis of the left lung and compensatory hyperinflation of the right lung. Preoperative examinations showed the unilobe and atelectatic left lung. The trachea was trifurcated in three directions, and the branch that was expected to be the left main bronchus was blind-ended. The dorsal branch was cartilaginous and bifurcated into the left lower lobe bronchus and lower esophagus approximately 1 cm distal from the tracheal trifurcation. The cartilaginous tissue continued to the lower esophagus. The diagnosis of esophageal atresia with the lower esophagus which originated from the left lower lobe bronchus was made. Esophageal atresia repair was performed when the patient was 4 months of age. The esophagus was dissected distally to the bifurcation of the left lower lobe bronchus via right thoracotomy. The lower esophagus was bronchial-like in appearance, transitioning to the normal esophageal wall approximately 7 mm distal to the transected edge. The cartilage tissue was completely resected during surgery, and a primary end-to-end anastomosis of the esophagus was successfully performed. Histopathological findings revealed that the extracted specimen was surrounded by tracheal cartilage and that the inner surface was covered by stratified squamous epithelium that originated from the esophagus. CONCLUSIONS: In cases of esophageal atresia with an atypical clinical presentation, there may be unique structural abnormalities of the foregut. We emphasize the importance of a preoperative surgical planning since an inadequate operation can lead to fatal complications.

The Unexpected Formation of a Broncho-Esophageal Fistula of the Right Main Stem Bronchus Status Post Esophageal Stent Placement: A Case Report.

This case presents a patient with a history of non-small cell lung carcinoma who had radiation therapy complicated by esophageal dysphagia. She had a fully covered self-expanding metal stent (SEMS) placed one year ago in the proximal region of her esophagus prior to this admission. She presented to the emergency department (ED) for dyspnea on exertion. Imaging showed a persistent right lower lobe opacity, and bronchoscopy revealed a right broncho-esophageal fistula (BEF). Further investigation by endoscopy found that the fully covered SEMS migrated distally and caused the formation of her fistula. This case presents a patient with a right BEF caused by a migrating esophageal stent.

A Complicated Parenchymal-Esophageal Fistula in Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer.

Respiratory digestive fistula (RDF) is an abnormal communication between the airway and the digestive tract. Only 3-11% of RDF communications are parenchymal-esophageal fistulas. We present a case of a 58-year-old male who presented to the emergency department with dysphagia and cough after swallowing. He was diagnosed with stage III/B non-small cell lung cancer. The patient was previously treated with chemotherapy, radiation, and immunotherapy. Computed tomography (CT) scan of the chest with contrast showed a chronic cavitary right upper lobe lesion in the previously treated malignancy area. New right paratracheal adenopathy, right esophageal wall thickening, and bilateral lung infiltrates were also shown. Upper endoscopy with bronchoscopy and endobronchial ultrasound (EBUS) was done to evaluate mediastinal lymphadenopathy as well as dysphagia. A tract was found extending from the right lung cavity into the esophagus through the mediastinum. Esophagoscopy was subsequently performed, and a fistula was observed on the right wall of the mid-esophagus. The defect was favorable for clipping, which was successfully closed with an 11/6 traumatic over the scope clip, followed by a fully covered esophageal stent. The patient's respiratory and gastrointestinal symptoms improved after the procedure. Follow-up barium swallow was negative for any esophageal leak. At three-month follow-up, the patient was free of recurrent pulmonary and gastrointestinal symptoms that he presented with. Palliative therapy is the targeted therapy for RDF management. RDF is either managed conservatively or with radiation, chemotherapy, or surgery to obliterate the connection. Surgical correction usually is not an option since patients typically have a poor functional status at the time of diagnosis. Considering the survival and recurrence rate medical intervention is the mainstay of treatment. Parallel dual (esophageal-bronchial) stenting has been proven to provide the best outcomes. Self-expanding metal stents (SEMS), either covered or partially covered, are used extensively to manage malignant RDF.

Port malposition in the azygos vein resulting in a veno-broncho and broncho-esophageal fistula: A case report.

We present a case of a port malposition into the azygos vein resulting in both a broncho-esophageal and veno-bronchial fistula. While complications of central venous catheter malposition into the azygos vein are well documented in literature, these unique complications have not yet been described. This case underscores how utilizing state of the art technology like intra-cavity electrocardiography rather that reliance on fluoroscopy can help eliminate catheter malposition and its potential catastrophic consequences.

Double-barrel adult congenital broncho-esophageal fistulae-images.

Congenital broncho-oesophageal fistulae (CBEF) are foregut developmental anomalies. They are formed due to the persistent attachment between the developing tracheal bud and the foregut in the embryo. They commonly present in young age and patients present with symptoms of recurrent respiratory tract infections and low body weight. Only one case of a double CBEF has been reported in literature so far. Here we present a congenital double barrel broncho-oesophageal fistula in a middle aged lady, which is a rare presentation. Definitive treatment involves division and repair of the fistula along with resection of the damaged portion of lung in select cases. We publish these images due to the rarity of a double fistula.

Treatment of a broncho-esophageal fistula complicated by severe ARDS.

INTRODUCTION: Broncho-esophageal fistula formation is a rare complication of tuberculosis, most often seen in immunocompromised patients. METHODS AND RESULTS: In this paper, we report the case of a young non-immunocompromised refugee from Somalia diagnosed with open pulmonary tuberculosis complicated by extensive osseous involvement and a broncho-esophageal fistula with consecutive aspiration of gastric contents. The patient rapidly developed a severe acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) requiring venovenous extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) therapy for nearly 2 months. The fistula was initially treated by standard antituberculous combination therapy and implantation of an esophageal and a bronchial stent. Long-term antibiotic treatment was instituted for pneumonia and mediastinitis. 7 months later, discontinuity resection of the esophagus was performed and the bronchial fistula covered by an intercostal muscle flap. DISCUSSION: This case illustrates that tuberculosis should always be suspected in patients from high-incidence countries in case of lung involvement and that an interdisciplinary approach including long-term intensive care management can enable successful treatment of tuberculosis with severe, near-fatal complications.

Esophageal stents in children: Bridge to surgical repair.

Management of complex esophageal problems in children is challenging. We report our experience with the use of esophageal stents in three children with esophageal strictures, leaks, or airway-esophageal fistulae refractory to conventional treatment. The stent played a key role in allowing extubation of a child with a large tracheo-esophageal-pleural fistula and in the resolution of pulmonary infection in a child with esophago-bronchial fistula, both followed by surgery. In the third child, with stricture, stents were complicated with migration, esophageal erosion, and esophago-bronchial fistula. In our experience, esophageal stents were useful mainly as a bridge to definitive surgical repair.

Thoracoscopic treatment of a broncho-esophageal fistula: A case report.

INTRODUCTION: Broncho-esophageal fistula is a rare clinical condition which can be manifested with non-specific signs and symptoms. PRESENTATION OF A CASE: Here, we report an adult case of a broncho-esophageal fistula in a 43-year-old man referred for chronic cough after fluid food intake and weight loss. Barium swallow, esophagogastroduodenoscopy, bronchoscopy and Computed Tomography of the chest demonstrated a broncho-esophageal fistula between the apical segmental bronchus of the lower right lobe and the middle section of the esophagus. The patient underwent video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery for resection of the fistula. No post-operative complications occurred. DISCUSSION: Broncho-esophageal fistula in adults is rare and its diagnosis is often delayed due to the frequent lack of specific symptoms. Although there is no standard protocol, the most widely used treatment is thoracotomy with identification and dissection of the fistula tract followed by repair of bronchial and esophageal defects. CONCLUSIONS: Video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery appears to be an effective and minimally invasive approach for the treatment of broncho-esophageal fistulas, especially in young, healthy subjects.

Diagnosis of congenital broncho-esophageal fistula in a 62-year-old male.

Congenital broncho-esophageal fistula (BEF) may go unrecognized in infancy and childhood and present later in life, due to non specific signs and symptoms. We report an adult case of congenital BEF which was diagnosed after massive aspiration precipitated by raised intra abdominal pressure due to severe acute pancreatitis.

A Case of Broncho-esophageal Fistula Treated by Histoacryl(R) Injection Therapy / 대한소화기내시경학회지

Broncho-esophageal fistula is a disease of varying etiologies. Spontaneous fistula occurs as a result of malignancy, radiotherapy or inflammatory disease. The majority of fistulas are caused by iatrogenic causes. Treatment of fistula usually consists of surgery and conservative management. Recently, it has been reported that broncho-esophageal fistula can be treated endoscopically using tissue adhesive agent such as Histoacryl(R) and fibrin glue. We report a case of broncho-esophageal fistula as a complication of tuberculosis that was successfully treated by radiological Histoacryl(R) injection therapy with a review of literatures.

A Case of Broncho-esophageal fistula associated with Bronchiectasis / 결핵

Broncho-esophageal fistula(BEF) is an uncommon clinical entity which can cause severe suppurative lung disease. Acquired fistulas between the esophagus and tracheobronchial tree are relatively uncommon. They are caused by many diseases including malignancy and chronic inflammation such as tuberculosis and have favorable outcome with proper treatment. To our knowledge, there has been no description of patients with BEF due to the bronchiectasis. We report a case of broncho-esophageal fistula in association with bronchiectasis in a 35-year-old male patient with hemoptysis. Bronchoscopy revealed mild bleeding from the superior segment of the right lower lobe without specific endobronchial lesion. Barium esophagogram could not confirm the fistula. The diagnosis of a broncho-esophageal fistula was established by an esophagogastroscopy using fistulogram and subsequent bronchoscopy, in which the communication between the bronchial tree and the esophagus was demonstrated by instilling dye selectively through the fistulous opening using esophagogastroscopy and visualizing the fistula and the bronchial tree. The patient was treated with resection of the right lower lobe, extirpation of the diverticulum and surgical closure of the bronchial defect and fistula, but he suffered from pneumonia thereafter and eventually expired due to sepsis and multiple organ failure.