Association between Candida esophagitis and esophagojejunal leakage following total gastrectomy: a retrospective cohort study

CE was associated with increased odds of EJ leakage after adjustment, but causality cannot be inferred from this retrospective study. The finding that delayed CE diagnosis was linked to higher leak risk suggests diagnostic timing may matter. Prospective validation of targeted esophageal assessment and timed antifungal strategies is warranted. Elevated BMI, hypoalbuminemia, and neoadjuvant therapy also contributed to higher odds of EJ leakage.