Mallory-Weiss Syndrome Triggered by Undigested Food Residues in a 90-Year-Old Male: An Unusual Etiology

Mallory-Weiss syndrome is an uncommon cause of upper gastrointestinal bleeding, typically resulting from mucosal lacerations induced by retching, vomiting, or coughing. Although well described in middle-aged individuals, its occurrence in elderly patients is unusual and may present atypically. We report the case of a 90-year-old male who developed hematemesis following vomiting undigested food residues, without preceding forceful emesis. Endoscopy revealed a Mallory-Weiss tear with active bleeding, successfully treated with hemoclips, and an incidental duodenal polyp. This case underscores the role of non-classical triggers in elderly patients and highlights the importance of prompt endoscopic evaluation and therapy.