SPONTANEOUS INTRAMURAL HEMATOMA OF THE ESOPHAGUS - A REPORT OF 3 CASES AND REVIEW OF THE LITERATURE

Spontaneous intramural haematoma of the oesophagus is an uncommon condition which may follow rapid increases in intra-oesophageal pressure and is predisposed to by coagulation disorders. The characteristic clinical presentation and findings at radiology and endoscopy frequently result in misdiagnosis and confusion with more sinister pathology. Awareness of the condition and conservative treatment with correction of coagulation abnormalities, when present, are the mainstays of management. Spontaneous resolution invariably occurs, and the condition is rarely fatal unless surgical treatment is attempted.