Congenital tracheoesophageal fistula with symptoms commencing at the onset of trauma: report of a case.

Congenital tracheoesophageal fistula without atresia can persist and remain undetected without symptoms until adulthood. We have recently encountered such a rare case and also conducted a review of the literature. Symptoms are commonly present during infancy, but occasionally patients do not develop symptoms until adulthood. In this case, it is suggested that the symptoms commenced after the redundant mucosal flap or membrane was broken due to a trauma to the chest.