Transient mega-esophagus in a neonate with congenital diaphragmatic hernia

Esophageal dilatation (ED) in neonates is rare. In the present case, ED was detected in a chest radiograph following repair of congenital diaphragmati c hernia (CDH) in a term neonate. A roentgenographic swallow study on the s eventh day of life demonstrated ED and a sub-diaphragmatic stomach. The inf ant thrived adequately on enteral feeding. A swallow study on the twentieth day of life showed a normal-width esophagus with gastroesophageal reflux a nd small hiatus hernia. The longstanding herniated stomach in the fetus app arently caused kinking, edema, and obstruction of the gastroesophageal junc tion. This led to a significant ED and concealment of gastroesophageal refl ux. We aim to arouse awareness about the occurrence of ED with CDH, and abo ut its benign course under conservative management.