ACUTE ESOPHAGEAL NECROSIS

Abstract

Acute esophageal necrosis (AEN) is defined as a diffuse blackened aspect of the esophagus observed by upper gastrointestinal endoscopy associated with the histopathological findings of necrosis of the esophageal mucosa. In general, the condition is present in severely compromised patients. Its cause remains unknown but is probably multifactorial. In the present case report we describe the clinical, endoscopic and histopathological characteristics of black esophagus observed in three patients and present a review of the literature.