Iatrogenic esophago-tracheal fistula: challenges in diagnosis and management.

Esophageo-tracheal fistula is a rare condition, and in most cases such fistulas are caused by malignant disease or emergency endotracheal intubation. A case where a wrapped tablet produced a fistula between the esophagus and trachea is described. The patient is a male born in 1938 who swallowed a tablet without unwrapping it.

How does comorbidity affect cost of health care in patients with irritable bowel syndrome? A cohort study in general practice.

Background: Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is associated with other disorders (comorbidity), reduced quality of life and increased use of health resources. We aimed to explore the impact of comorbidity on cost of health care in patients with IBS in general practice.

Methods: In this cohort study 208 consecutive patients with IBS (Rome II) were recruited.