An Aberrant Right Subclavian Artery–Esophageal Fistula—A Fatal Complication of a Common Anomaly: A Case Report and Review of Literature

Abstract

An aberrant right subclavian artery (ARSA), also called as arteria lusoria, is one of the most common aortic arch anomalies. ARSA–esophageal fistula is a rare, life-threatening complication, with only 37 cases reported in literature. We describe a case of a young girl who developed acute episode of massive hematemesis after the recovery from novel coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pneumonia. Computed tomography (CT) angiography showed ARSA with retroesophageal course and active contrast leak in esophagus. Digital subtraction angiography confirmed the site of active contrast extravasation from the ARSA. However, the patient succumbed to hypovolemic shock even before the endovascular or surgical interventions could be done.

Keywords

• arsa
• aberrant right subclavian artery
• esophageal bleeding
• nasogastric tube