Oesophageal Varices Flashcards
1
Q
Other than cirrhosis, what are the other (more rare) causes of oesophageal varices?
A
Portal or splenic vein occlusion, stenosis or external compression
Constrictive or restrictive cardiomyopathy
Web lesion of the IVC
Valvular heart disease
Myeloproliferative disorders
Hepatic artery portal vein fistula
2
Q
At what hepatic venous pressure gradient can portal hypertension be diagnosed and at what pressure does this represent a bleeding risk?
A
Diagnosis - HVPG >5mmHg
Bleeding risk - HVPG >12 mmHg
3
Q
What drug can be used in the long-term secondary prevention of oesophageal varices?
A
Non-selective beta blocker
