What is noted to cause tears in the distal esophagus due to retching, particularly in alcoholics or bulimics?

The condition associated with tearing in the distal esophagus due to severe retching or vomiting is known as Mallory-Weiss syndrome. This syndrome is commonly seen in individuals who engage in repeated bouts of vomiting, which can occur in cases of excessive alcohol consumption or in disorders like bulimia. The tears are typically mucosal in nature and occur at the gastroesophageal junction, which can lead to significant bleeding.

Understanding the context surrounding this condition is important; excessive pressure from retching can disrupt the delicate lining of the esophagus, resulting in the characteristic tears. Recognizing that this phenomenon often occurs in specific populations, such as alcoholics and those suffering from eating disorders, helps in identifying at-risk patients and managing their care effectively.

In contrast, the other conditions listed in the question refer to different medical issues: McBurney's syndrome is related to inflammation of the appendix, Murphy's sign indicates gallbladder inflammation or cholecystitis, and cholecystitis itself refers to inflammation of the gallbladder, none of which are related to esophageal tears caused by vomiting. Understanding the specific implications of Mallory-Weiss syndrome is valuable for recognizing and treating this serious complication.