Hydropneumopericardium: A Rare Complication of an Oesophageal Tumour

Hydropneumopericardium is a rare event with a risk of serious complications. Timely diagnosis and treatment is important as it can improve prognosis. We report the case of a 77-year-old male patient who presented with acute interscapular pain which developed during a meal. An oesophago-pericardial fistula was found in the context of malignant oesophageal disease. LEARNING POINTS: Hydropneumopericardium secondary to oesophageal tumour is a rare but life-threatening finding that has a very poor prognosis. A high level of suspicion is needed, as the clinical manifestations are very unspecific and timely treatment can improve prognosis. Successful management of an oesophago-pericardial fistula includes surgical treatment and antibiotic therapy.