Management of a tracheoesophageal fistula in a patient with AIDS

Despite the high frequency of gastrointestinal complications and opportunistic infections in HIV-1 infected patients, tracheoesophageal (TEF) and bronchoesophageal (BEF) fistulas are rare. Our objective is to comunicate an additional and unusual case of TEF in an HIV-1-infected patient whose immunologic status was good with complete suppression of viral replication, so although uncommon, TEF/BEF of an infectious origen should be considered in AIDS. Endoscopic treatment with tracheal/esophageal stents is not without morbidity and mortality. As long as the patient can undergo reconstructive surgery, this should be the technique of choice.