Late presentation of congenital H-type tracheoesophageal fistula in an immunocompromised patient

Abstract

Congenital tracheoesophageal fistulas without esophageal atresia - H-type tracheoesophageal fistula - accounts for approximately 4% of esophageal malformations. This term refers to a connection at an oblique course between the posterior wall of the trachea and the anterior wall of the esophagus, presenting as an 'H' form. Typically, the diagnosis is made before the third year of life; however, some reports have been made of late presentation in adults who present chronic cough and frequent respiratory infections. Traditionally, surgery has been considered as the best treatment, depending on the level of the fistula. We present the case of an immunocompromised patient who was diagnosed as having a congenital tracheoesophageal fistula of the upper third of the trachea.