Mallory-Weiss tear
Pronunciation: MAL-oh-ree VICE tear
A longitudinal mucosal laceration in the distal esophagus caused by sudden increase in intragastric pressure.
Full Definition
A Mallory-Weiss tear is a longitudinal mucosal and submucosal laceration in the distal esophagus that occurs due to rapid increase in intragastric pressure against a closed glottis, typically during vomiting or retching. Unlike Boerhaave syndrome, which involves full-thickness esophageal rupture, Mallory-Weiss tears are partial-thickness injuries that usually heal spontaneously. The condition commonly presents with hematemesis following alcohol consumption, though it can occur with any cause of increased abdominal pressure. Most tears (80-90%) stop bleeding spontaneously, but severe cases may require endoscopic intervention, balloon tamponade, or rarely, surgical repair. Diagnosis is confirmed by upper endoscopy showing the characteristic longitudinal mucosal defect.
Usage
Usage note: Hyphenate as 'Mallory-Weiss tear.' Capitalize both surnames as eponyms. Distinguish from Mallory bodies in hepatology.
In Context
- "Upper endoscopy revealed a 3-cm Mallory-Weiss tear in the distal esophagus with active arterial bleeding." — Endoscopy report
- "The patient's hematemesis following alcohol binge was attributed to Mallory-Weiss tear, which ceased bleeding spontaneously." — Emergency department note