Assimilation and Social Change Dynamics in African and African American Communities

We herein report a case of late diagnosed thoracic esophageal perforation. A 60-year-old man was diagnosed as an esophageal perforation with mediastinitis and pericardial abscess by detailed history taking, chest computed tomography, esophagoscopy and inflammatory findings in his blood test. Surgical drainage of mediastinum and pericardium was able to effectively control infectious process and pericardial fibrosis. Endoscopic esophageal stent placement on the thoracic- esophageal fistula promoted healing of the esophageal wall defect and enabled him to restart oral intake. This case report suggests that detailed history taking is important for all patients. Effective drainage of mediastinum and the use of esophageal stent may be the treatment options for late-diagnosed esophageal perforation.