MALIGNANT TRACHEO-ESOPHAGEAL FISTULA IN ADVANCED ESOPHAGEAL CANCER: REPORT OF TWO CASES

Dr Prajwal R, Dr Diptajit Paul, Dr Rakesh Dhankhar, Dr Ashok Chauhan

Abstract


Introduction: Malignant tracheo-esophageal stula (TEF), a relatively uncommon entity, can be seen in advanced
esophageal cancer. However, development of TEF in these patients whether due to advancement of disease or due to
medical intervention like radiation therapy (RT), chemotherapy is a matter of debate. Here, we reported two cases of malignant TEF in advanced
esophageal carcinoma. Case Summary: The rst patient was 46-year-old male, with progressive dysphagia diagnosed as middle thoracic
esophageal cancer, squamous cell type. Patient was managed with palliative RT 39 Gy/13 fractions. Within 1-month of RT completion, patient
developed TEF and succumbed to death. The other one was 54-year-old male presented with history of progressive dysphagia and diagnosed as
having upper thoracic squamous cell carcinoma of esophagus. He was given palliative RT 20 Gy/4 fractions. Unfortunately, this patient also
developed TEF on rst follow-up and despite best efforts patient declared dead in ICU. Conclusion: These two cases showed that treating
oncologist should be aware of potential TEF occurrence in cases of advanced esophageal cancer treated vigorously. As, management of
established TEF is cumbersome, precaution should be taken to prevent it. Further case reports and series with different management approach will
enlighten about standard protocol in management of such patients.


Keywords


Esophageal cancer; malignant trachea-esophageal stula; radiation therapy

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