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==Description==
An oesophageal fistula is an abnormal connection between the oesophageal lumen and a structure in its immediate vicinity, most commonly the lungs or other respiratory structures producing a '''bronocho-oesophageal fistula'''. In rare cases, fistulae may be congenital but they are usually acquired phenomena. Acquired oesophageal fistulae occur when severe inflammation or disruption of the oesophageal wall leads to [[Rupture of the Oesophagus|perforation]] and, as this heals, a tract is formed with the respiratory system. Causes of the initial insult include [[Oesophageal Foreign Body|foreign bodies]], [[Oesophageal Neoplasia|neoplasia]] and severe [[Oesophagitis|oesophagitis]]. Passage of oesophageal luminal contents into the respiratory system may result in localised pneumonia, pleurisy and pulmonary abscessation.
==Typical Signalment==
==Signalment==
Cairn terriers may develop congenital fistulae but the condition is generally rare in cats and dogs.
==Diagnosis==
==Diagnosis==
===Clinical Signs===
===Clinical Signs===
Clinical signs associated with congenital fistulae tend to develop after weaning as solid food is more likely to lodge in the fistula and, depending on the food, it may have a higher microbial load than milk. Acquired fistulae tend to develop later in life and are associated with an injury to the oesophagus. Clinical signs are usually associated with the respiratory system and gastro-intestinal signs are actually rare:
*'''Coughing''', especially soon after eating or drinking.
*Coughing
*'''Dyspnoea'''
*Dyspnoea
*Signs of '''(aspiration) pneumonia''', including dyspnoea, tachypnoea, pyrexia and coughing.
*Regurgitation
*'''Regurgitation''',
*Lethargy
===Diagnostic Imaging===
===Diagnostic Imaging===
'''Survey radiography''': localized lung patterns (alveolar, bronchial and/or interstitial) mainly in right caudal, right intermediate and left caudal lung lobes. The oesophagus appears normal unless a foreign body can be observed.
'''Survey radiography''': localized lung patterns (alveolar, bronchial and/or interstitial) mainly in right caudal, right intermediate and left caudal lung lobes. The oesophagus appears normal unless a foreign body can be observed.