Phlegmonous esophagitis treated by endoscopic drainage

Phlegmonous esophagitis is a rare and sometimes fatal condition. Cases surgically treated have been reported previously; however, surgical approaches may be risky in the elderly. An 86-year-old woman presented with a sore throat and high fever after eating fish. She was first diagnosed with a deep cervical abscess, and conservative treatment was initially selected. However, her respiratory failure worsened, so emergent tracheostomy and surgical drainage were performed. Computed tomography showed intramural low-density lesions along the entire length of the esophagus and she was diagnosed with phlegmonous esophagitis. To avoid surgical intervention, endoscopic drainage was first attempted. Mucosal incision was made on the lower esophagus guided by endoscopic ultrasonography, using the insulated-tip electrosurgical knife. After the endoscopic drainage, her general health status improved, and the esophageal wall thickness was reduced. While some cases have recovered with conservative treatment, endoscopic drainage may be useful in certain patients.