Abstract

Spontaneous esophageal perforation (Boerhaave Syndrome) is an unusual condition that frequently leads to fatal complications. It typically occurs with rigorous emesis after an unduly large meal or heavy drinking. Its diagnosis is often delayed in almost all cases due to nonspecific symptoms and signs, resulting in increased morbidity and mortality. Therefore early diagnosis and appropriate treatment are very important. Recently we experienced a case of esophagogastric junctional perforation accompanied by bilateral empyema and mediastinitis after heavy alcohol drinking in a 56-year-old male patient. He was presented with hematemesis and abdominal pain. We diagnosed him using esophagography and chest CT. Thus, we report a case with a brief review of related literatures. (Korean J Gastrointest Endosc 18: 879-883, 1998)

• Keywords: Spontaneous esophageal perforation , Bilateral empyema , Alcoholic liver cirrhosis