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Aortoesophageal fistula

Imaging findings

Chest CT in a patient with esophageal cancer and an esophageal stent shows a large bleeding vessel, soft tissue along the medial aspect of the aorta contiguous with the tumor mass, and a fistulous communication between the aorta and the esophagus, resulting in massive hematemesis and a blood-filled, distended stomach. Contrast is visible in both the aorta and stomach.

Key takeaways

Aortoesophageal fistula is a rare, highly lethal condition characterized by communication between the aorta and the esophagus, often secondary to esophageal carcinoma, foreign bodies, or stent complications. It leads to massive gastrointestinal hemorrhage and is typically fatal.

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