Submucosal esophageal hematomas in a critically ill patient on anticoagulation

Abstract

Submucosal esophageal hematoma is an uncommon clinical complication of anticoagulation. Current literature is scarce regarding presentation and management in acute submucosal hematomas in critically ill patients. Patients often present with retrosternal chest pain, making the diagnosis challenging due to overlap with common presentations of cardiopulmonary disorders. A high degree of suspicion is necessary in sedated patients. Several factors contribute to its etiology, and diagnosis often requires invasive techniques like endoscopy. However, management is usually supportive and aimed at its underlying cause. This is a case of a 68-year-old female who developed submucosal esophageal hematomas following anticoagulation for subarachnoid hemorrhage-related delayed neurological deficits in the intensive care unit.

Keywords

• submucosal esophageal hematoma
• anticoagulation
• subarachnoid hemorrhage
• delayed neurological deficits