Bleeding esophageal varices result from dilated (wider than normal) veins in the walls of the lower part of the esophagus and sometimes the upper part of the stomach.
Causes, incidence, and risk factors:
Bleeding varices are a life-threatening complication of portal hypertension (increased blood pressure in the portal vein caused by liver disease). The portal vein carries blood from the intestine to the liver. Increased pressure causes the veins to balloon outward. The vessels may rupture, causing vomiting of blood and bloody stools or tarry black stools. If a large volume of blood is lost, signs of shock will develop. Any cause of chronic liver disease can cause bleeding varices.
Tests to determine where the bleeding is coming from and detect active bleeding include the insertion of a tube through the nose and down into the stomach to look for signs of bleeding.The tube is known as a nasogastric or "NG" tube. Tests to visualize the varices include EGD (esophagogastroduodenoscopy).
Review Date: 5/4/2006
Reviewed By: Jenifer K. Lehrer, MD, Department of Gastroenterology, Frankford-Torresdale Hospital, Jefferson Health System, Philadelphia, PA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.
The information provided herein should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed physician should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Links to other sites are provided for information only -- they do not constitute endorsements of those other sites. Copyright 2002 A.D.A.M., Inc. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited.
General Gastroenterology
