Boerhaave syndrome

complete, transmural laceration of esophagus
• etiology:
  • spontaneous (retching, EtOH)
  • 2' to endoscopy, trauma, vagotomy, FB
• sx: chest pain, shock, dyspnea, cyanosis
• grave prognosis

• M > F
• usually on LEFT
• uncommonly sub-diaphragmatic

see also:
• esophageal trauma
• V sign of Naclerio

© 2002, C.E. Kahn, Jr.
2002-04-18