Esophageal varices
About Esophageal varices
The esophagus is the tube that connects the mouth to the stomach. Varices are dilated veins most commonly found near the esophagus or stomach. The most common cause of esophageal varices is scarring of the liver (cirrhosis) from longstanding alcohol abuse. Cirrhosis causes a back-up of blood in the esophageal veins which leads to the development of varices. Bleeding esophageal varices can be life-threatening.Symptoms
Vomiting blood or a material that resembles coffee grounds, chest pain, breathing problems, fainting, black stools (melena), anemia, fatigue.Tests & Diagnostics
A history and physical exam will be performed. Additional tests may include: Esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD), or esophagram (barium swallow), and blood tests to measure the red blood cell count and the ability to clot blood.Common tests: Complete blood count (CBC), Comprehensive metabolic panel (CMP).
Conventional treatment summary
For small, non-bleeding varices no treatment may be necessary although close monitoring is recommended. Certain medications (such as beta-blockers and nitrates) may reduce the risk of bleeding. For those that are enlarging, bleeding or appear to be at risk for bleeding, ligation or injection of the varices through the endoscope are the most common initial treatments. A transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt (TIPS) may be performed to reduce the back-up pressure in the esophageal veins. In severe cases liver transplant is the only effective treatment.Medical specialties
Gastroenterology · Vascular and Interventional Radiology
This page is educational content, not medical advice. Always consult a qualified clinician for diagnosis and treatment of Esophageal varices.