Mallory-Weiss Tear

Tear of the tissue of the lower oesophagus

Aetiology

  • Often occurs after a period of prolonged and vigorous retching and vomiting, most commonly after a period of heavy drinking
  • Retching tears the oesophageal/gastric junction → heavy bleeding

Clinical presentation

  • Haematemesis - large volumes of bright red blood
  • Melena

Investigations

  • Endoscopy

Management

  • Bleeding usually stops by itself and patient needs no further treatment