Mallory-Weiss syndrome [G. Kenneth Mallory, American pathologist, 1900-1986; Soma Weiss, American physician, 1899-1942] , a condition characterized by massive bleeding after a tear in the mucous membrane at the junction of the esophagus and the stomach. The laceration is usually caused by protracted vomiting, most commonly in alcoholics or in people whose pylorus is obstructed. The esophageal tear is located by esophagoscopy or arteriography. Surgery is usually necessary to stop the bleeding.
