Chapter 13 - Esophagus Flashcards
The esophagus is approximately how long in adults?
23-25 cm
The esophagus is considered the third organ of digestion after ___ and ___.
mouth and pharynx
How many layers are there in the esophagus?
Three: mucosa, submucosa & muscularis
What is pyrosis?
Heartburn
What is dysphagia?
Difficulty in swallowing
What is odynophagia?
Painful swallowing
In gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), pts has an incompetent lower esophageal sphincter (LES). What are some symptoms associated with GERD?
dyspepsia pyrosis dysphagia odynophagia bleeding esophagitis Aspiration pneumonia
What are some treatments for GERD?
- Dietary adjustment
- Weight loss
- Elevation of head
- smoking cessation
- Avoidance of food and drink 2 hours before bed
- Drug therapy
What are some complications of unresolved GERD?
esophageal stricture, ulcer, Barrett’s oesphagus, pulmonary aspiration or UGI bleed
What can cause strictures in the esophagus?
Caustic injuries, candidiasis, prolonged GERD
What is the name of the condition when there is an allergic inflammatory disease with accumulated eosinophil (WBC) in the esophagus?
Eosinophilic esophagitis
Treatment: PPI, steroids, H2 blockers
What is a Mallory-Weiss tear?
A mucosal tear at the GOJ.
Note: Often associated with alcohol abuse
What is achalasia?
- Defect of peristalsis
- Elevated LES pressure
Note: On xray, oesophagus looks dilated with a ‘Bird beak’ at the distal end.
What is the name of the condition when manometrically there is a repetitive or prolonged simultaneous contraction of the esophagus?
Diffuse esophageal spasm (DES)
What is nutcracker oesphagus?
When the contractile force of the peristalsis is 2-3 times the normal value. It is also typified by a distal esophageal contraction amplitude (DEA) greater than 220 mmHg.
