Tracheoesophageal fistula
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Respiratory system
Pathology
Upper respiratory tract disorders
Lower respiratory tract disorders
Tracheoesophageal fistula
Congenital pulmonary airway malformation
Pulmonary hypoplasia
Neonatal respiratory distress syndrome
Transient tachypnea of the newborn
Meconium aspiration syndrome
Apnea of prematurity
Sudden infant death syndrome
Acute respiratory distress syndrome
Pulmonary changes at high altitude and altitude sickness
Decompression sickness
Cyanide poisoning
Methemoglobinemia
Emphysema
Chronic bronchitis
Asthma
Cystic fibrosis
Bronchiectasis
Alpha 1-antitrypsin deficiency
Restrictive lung diseases
Sarcoidosis
Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis
Hypersensitivity pneumonitis
Pneumonia
Croup
Bacterial tracheitis
Lung cancer
Pancoast tumor
Superior vena cava syndrome
Pleura and pleural space disorders
Pulmonary vascular disorders
Apnea and hypoventilation
Respiratory system pathology review
Respiratory distress syndrome: Pathology review
Cystic fibrosis: Pathology review
Pneumonia: Pathology review
Tuberculosis: Pathology review
Deep vein thrombosis and pulmonary embolism: Pathology review
Pleural effusion, pneumothorax, hemothorax and atelectasis: Pathology review
Obstructive lung diseases: Pathology review
Restrictive lung diseases: Pathology review
Apnea, hypoventilation and pulmonary hypertension: Pathology review
Lung cancer and mesothelioma: Pathology review
High Yield Notes
8 pages
Memory Anchors and Partner Content
External Links
Tracheoesophageal fistula exam links
Summary
Tracheoesophageal fistula (TEF) is a medical condition where there is an abnormal connection, or fistula, between the trachea (windpipe) and the esophagus (food pipe). In newborns, TEF occurs as a congenital birth defect caused by the failure of the trachea and esophagus to separate during fetal development. Symptoms of TEF include difficulty feeding, choking, coughing, and respiratory distress. In some cases, an infant may also develop aspiration pneumonia due to food or liquid entering the lungs through the fistula. Once diagnosed, prompt surgery is required to allow the food intake.