Pneumopericardium and colo-pericardial fistula.

Abstract

Colo-pericardial fistulas are extremely rare. They are typically described in association with colonic interposition after esophageal replacement. Diaphragmatic tumour erosion and subsequent colo-pericardial fistulization is exceedingly unique and only one known record exists in the literature to date. This report represents the first case of a dramatic initial presentation of invasive colon cancer in the form of cardiac symptoms caused by an acute pneumopericardium resulting from a colo- pericardial fistula. Although the patient described here succumbed to post-operative complications, it is recommended that colo- pericardial fistulas should be diagnosed early and surgically managed as they are fatal in 50% ofcases.