Lymphoma and tracheoesophageal fistula: Indication for a removable esophageal stent

Mediastinal lymphoma is a rare cause of tracheoesophageal fistula (TEF). While most reports described in the literature have been related to prior or concurrent chemoradiation therapy, TEF has rarely been reported as the initial presentation of lymphoma. We report on a young woman found to have Hodgkin's disease complicated by TEF that required emergent placement of an esophageal stent. The lymphoma was successfully treated and, due to stent-related symptoms, removal was desired but not technically possible. We discuss options that may prevent this predicament in the future.