Hodgkin's disease presenting with a bronchoesophageal fistula

Bronchoesophageal fistula is a rare complication of Hodgkin's disease. We report a case of Hodgkin's disease presenting with a bronchoesophageal fistula that was successfully treated with bipolar esophageal exclusion and substernal gastric bypass. Direct invasion from mediastinal lymph nodes was the probable cause. Although bronchoesophageal fistula can result as a complication during the course of treatment for Hodgkin's disease, it rarely occurs as the presenting feature. Early recognition and surgical treatment are key aspects of management. (Ann Thorac Surg 19908;66:1409-10) (C) 1998 by The Society of Thoracic Surgeons.