Boerhaave Syndrome: A Case Report of Spontaneous Esophageal Perforation

Authors

  •   S. Kowsalya Department of Emergency Medicine, Government Thiruvarur Medical College, Thiruvarur – 610004, Tamil Nadu, India
  •   M. Amudhan Department of Emergency Medicine, Government Thiruvarur Medical College, Thiruvarur – 610004, Tamil Nadu, India
  •   M. Amudhan Department of Emergency Medicine, Government Thiruvarur Medical College, Thiruvarur – 610004, Tamil Nadu, India

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.65129/medical.v1i3.132

Keywords:

Boerhaave Syndrome, Case Report, Esophageal Perforation, Pneumomediastinum, Subcutaneous Emphysema, Thoracic Emergency

Abstract

Boerhaave syndrome is an uncommon but potentially fatal condition caused by spontaneous rupture of the esophagus, usually following forceful vomiting. Delay in diagnosis significantly increases morbidity and mortality. We present a 38 year old man who arrived with chest discomfort, facial swelling, and respiratory distress after repeated vomiting following alcohol binge intake. Imaging demonstrated pneumomediastinum, bilateral pleural effusion, and contrast leakage from the esophagus into the pleural cavity. Emergency thoracic drainage and surgical intervention were performed. Early recognition, aggressive resuscitation, and multidisciplinary management were essential for survival. This report highlights the importance of considering esophageal perforation in patients with chest pain and subcutaneous emphysema following forceful emesis and retching

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Published

2025-09-30

How to Cite

Kowsalya, S., Amudhan, M., & Amudhan, M. (2025). Boerhaave Syndrome: A Case Report of Spontaneous Esophageal Perforation. Journal of Medicine and Medical Specialities, 1(3), 180–182. https://doi.org/10.65129/medical.v1i3.132

Issue

Volume 1, Issue 3, September 2025

Section

Case Report

License

Copyright (c) 2026 Journal of Medicine and Medical Specialities

Creative Commons License

This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License.

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