Black esophagus, also known as acute esophageal necrosis (AEN) syndrome, is a rare entity characterized by patchy or diffuse circumferential black pigmentation of the esophageal mucosa from ischemic necrosis. It may present with life-threatening upper gastrointestinal hemorrhage resulting in high mortality in immunocompromised patients. Advanced age with multiple comorbidities compounded with compromised hemodynamic states are poor prognostic factors. Findings on laboratory work-up and radiological imaging are non-specific. After initial resuscitation, endoscopic evaluation and histological examination of esophageal biopsy are diagnostic. Early recognition and aggressive resuscitation are the fundamental principles for the management of AEN and better outcome of the disease. We report a case of a 56-year-old woman with diabetes mellitus, gastro-esophageal reflux disease, and active alcohol binging who presented with hematemesis and acute epigastric pain due to AEN. This case illustrates a rare etiology of AEN due to active alcohol drinking, which may be overlooked. Physician awareness about this etiology is important as early recognition and timely management may improve survival.
Mycophenolate mofetil (MMF) is an immunosuppressive medication used for the management of various autoimmune diseases, and patients with bone marrow and solid organ transplants. Gastrointestinal side effects are seen 45% of the time and they include nausea (29%), vomiting (23%), constipation (38%), diarrhea (50%-92%), and colitis (9%). In 98% of cases, resolution of diarrhea occurs within 20 days upon discontinuation of the MMF. Data is scarce regarding approach in the treatment of MMF-induced colitis. We report a case of MMF-induced colitis diagnosed by colonoscopy and histopathology. This case illustrates the challenges encountered while managing MMF-induced colitis.
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