Mallory-Weiss syndrome is haematemesis from a tear in the mucosa of the oesophagus, brought on by prolonged vomiting due to a variety of causes. The tear most often develops in the lower oesophagus close to the oesophago-gastric junction. Melaena may develop later.
Mallory-Weiss syndrome may occur as a result of alcohol-related vomiting or the recurrent morning sickness of pregnancy.
This syndrome must not be confused with Boerhaave's syndrome - where there is a spontaneous perforation of a non-diseased oesophagus - or with an intramural rupture.
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