Pneumopericardium occurring as a complication of achalasia

Chest. 1986 Aug;90(2):292-3. doi: 10.1378/chest.90.2.292.

Abstract

Esophagopericardial fistula is a rare complication of benign esophageal disease. It has not previously been described occurring in achalasia. The authors present such a case. This cause should be considered in the differential diagnosis of pneumopericardium in patients with achalasia. Early diagnosis is stressed and esophagoscopic examination should be performed if the result of barium swallow test is negative.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Barium Sulfate
  • Esophageal Achalasia / complications*
  • Esophageal Achalasia / diagnostic imaging
  • Esophageal Fistula / complications
  • Fistula / complications
  • Heart Diseases / complications
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Pericardium
  • Pneumopericardium / diagnostic imaging
  • Pneumopericardium / etiology*
  • Radiography

Substances

  • Barium Sulfate