Description
The esophagus is the tube that connects the mouth to the stomach. Esophagitis is inflammation of the lining of the esophagus. This inflammation may be due to an infection, radiation, irritation from acid reflux, or other irritants. The most common cause is the back up of acidic fluid from the stomach - a syndrome call GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease).
Symptoms
Pain with swallowing, reflux symptoms (often called "heartburn"), chest pain, nausea, sore throat, hoarseness.
Tests
Common tests used for diagnosis and treatment
Workup:
A history and physical exam will be performed. Direct visualization with esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD) may be recommended if initial treatment fails.
Tests:
Complete blood count (CBC), Comprehensive metabolic panel (CMP), Electrocardiogram (EKG), Lipase, Troponin, X-ray
Other Specific Tests: Endoscopy, Upper GI, fungal cultures
Specialists:
Gastroenterology, Internal Medicine, Pediatrics, Family Practice, Pediatric Gastroenterology
Workup:
A history and physical exam will be performed. Direct visualization with esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD) may be recommended if initial treatment fails.
Tests:
Complete blood count (CBC), Comprehensive metabolic panel (CMP), Electrocardiogram (EKG), Lipase, Troponin, X-ray
Other Specific Tests: Endoscopy, Upper GI, fungal cultures
Specialists:
Gastroenterology, Internal Medicine, Pediatrics, Family Practice, Pediatric Gastroenterology
Treatment
Treatment of the underlying cause is essential for recovery. Medications for esophagitis include: proton pump inhibitors (omeprazole/Prilosec, pantoprazole/Protonix), H2 Blockers (cimetidine/Tagamet, ranitidine/Zantac), anti-inflammatory medications, anti-nausea medications, and treatment for infection (such as antifungal medications).