Bronchoesophageal fistula diagnosed on modified barium swallow, a unique presentation

Abstract

Modified barium swallow (MBS) studies, performed in conjunction with speech pathologists, are routinely performed to assess for aspiration. The narrow field of view over the area of interest limits assessment of pathology in the thoracic esophagus and airways. We report a case of a 79-year-old female with bronchoesophageal fistula diagnosed incidentally after abnormal findings on an MBS initially performed to assess for aspiration.

Keywords

• Contrast aspiration
• Bronchoesophageal fistula
• Barium swallow
• Aspiration pneumonia
• Contrast reflux