1. Esophageal Disorders Quiz
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Questions and Answers

Which of the following is a first-line treatment for eosinophilic esophagitis?

  • Proton pump inhibitors (correct)
  • Corticosteroids
  • H2 receptor antagonists
  • Antacids

Dietary restrictions for eosinophilic esophagitis often involve eliminating which of the following?

  • Fruits and vegetables
  • Dairy, eggs, soy, and wheat (correct)
  • Grains and nuts
  • Artificial sweeteners and preservatives

The classic triad of achalasia includes all of the following, EXCEPT:

  • Increased lower esophageal sphincter pressure
  • Incomplete lower esophageal sphincter relaxation
  • Esophageal hypermotility (correct)
  • Aperistalsis of the esophagus

Primary achalasia is most commonly caused by:

<p>Degeneration of nitric oxide-producing neurons (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is a cause of secondary achalasia (pseudoachalasia)?

<p>Chagas disease (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following symptoms is commonly associated with achalasia?

<p>Progressive difficulty swallowing both solids and liquids (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the typical appearance of the esophagus on a barium swallow study in a patient with achalasia?

<p>A dilated esophagus with a distal area of stenosis having a 'bird's beak' appearance (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary reason that the esophageal epithelium is susceptible to injury in GERD?

<p>The epithelium's sensitivity to gastric acid. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

The pathophysiology of achalasia involves the degeneration of inhibitory neurons in which location?

<p>Myenteric (Auerbach) plexus (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the most frequently observed endoscopic finding associated with damage to the esophageal mucosa due to GERD?

<p>Reflux esophagitis (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which esophageal manometry finding is most consistent with the diagnosis of achalasia?

<p>Uncoordinated or absent peristalsis along with high LES resting pressure (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

In achalasia, the increased resting pressure of the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) is directly related to which of the following?

<p>Degeneration of inhibitory neurons (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is considered a major cause of GERD due to transient lower esophageal sphincter relaxation?

<p>Vagal pathway activity (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary characteristic of esophagitis?

<p>Inflammation of the esophageal mucosa (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is a common feature of achalasia?

<p>Esophageal dilation proximal to the LES (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary surgical goal in the treatment of achalasia?

<p>To relieve the functional obstruction of the lower esophageal sphincter while preventing reflux (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Besides surgery, which endoscopic procedure is indicated for achalasia?

<p>Botulinum toxin injection into the LES (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT a direct cause of esophagitis?

<p>Hiatal hernia (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What can cause gastroesophageal reflux due to an increase in intra-abdominal pressure?

<p>Coughing, straining or bending (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

In mild cases of GERD, what is the common observable change in the esophageal morphology?

<p>Simple hyperemia (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Eosinophilic esophagitis is most strongly associated with which of these?

<p>Allergic conditions and atopy (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the most frequent cause of esophagitis?

<p>Reflux of gastric contents into the lower esophagus (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a morphological change that is commonly found with more severe gastric reflux?

<p>Erosions (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is a common symptom of eosinophilic esophagitis?

<p>Food bolus impaction (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT a listed disorder affecting the esophagus?

<p>Gastritis (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Barrett's esophagus is a complication of chronic GERD characterized by what cellular change?

<p>Glandular metaplasia (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a common observation during esophageal manometry specifically related to the lower two thirds of the esophagus in patients with achalasia?

<p>Absent or uncoordinated peristalsis (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the key diagnostic finding in eosinophilic esophagitis?

<p>Intraepithelial accumulation of eosinophils (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which demographic group is most commonly affected by eosinophilic esophagitis?

<p>Young males (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

In Barrett's esophagus, if the cause of reflux is not removed what may the metaplasia lead to?

<p>Dysplasia (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following best describes the nature of eosinophilic esophagitis?

<p>A chronic immune-mediated inflammatory condition (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What can exacerbate symptoms of eosinophilic esophagitis?

<p>Ingestion of food containing allergens (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is a typical symptom of bleeding esophageal varices?

<p>Sudden onset of severe gastrointestinal bleeding (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary diagnostic procedure for esophageal varices?

<p>Esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD) (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is a typical treatment for esophageal varices?

<p>Endoscopic variceal ligation (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the underlying cause of a Zenker diverticulum?

<p>Inadequate relaxation of the upper esophageal sphincter and increased intraluminal pressure (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is a common presenting symptom of Zenker diverticulum?

<p>Dysphagia and gurgling (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the diagnostic procedure of choice for Zenker diverticulum?

<p>Barium swallow with videofluoroscopy (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

At which location does a Zenker diverticulum typically arise?

<p>Above the upper esophageal sphincter at the junction of the esophagus and pharynx (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the main treatment for symptomatic Zenker diverticula?

<p>Surgery (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A patient presents with hematemesis after a bout of severe vomiting. Which of the following conditions is most likely?

<p>Mallory-Weiss syndrome (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of these is a predisposing condition for Mallory-Weiss syndrome?

<p>Hiatal hernia (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary mechanism behind the development of a Mallory-Weiss tear?

<p>Severe retching or vomiting (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A patient with suspected Mallory-Weiss syndrome is undergoing diagnostic testing. Which procedure is considered the gold standard?

<p>Esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD) (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a defining characteristic of Mallory-Weiss syndrome?

<p>Partial thickness lacerations at the gastroesophageal junction (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

When is surgical ligation indicated in cases of Mallory-Weiss syndrome?

<p>When EGD or angiographic treatment fails and bleeding is ongoing (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A hiatal hernia is characterized by:

<p>The abnormal protrusion of an abdominal structure into the thoracic cavity (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is least specific for Mallory-Weiss syndrome?

<p>Hematemesis (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Flashcards

Esophagitis

Inflammation of the esophageal lining (mucosa), often caused by irritation (e.g., acid reflux, certain substances) or immune responses.

Eosinophilic Esophagitis

Chronic esophageal inflammation with a high number of eosinophils (a type of white blood cell).

Food bolus impaction

A condition where food gets stuck due to narrowing of the esophagus, a common symptom of eosinophilic esophagitis.

Histopathologic confirmation of eosinophils

The presence of excess eosinophils in the lining of the esophagus, confirmed by examining a tissue sample.

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Dysphagia

Difficulty swallowing, a common symptom of eosinophilic esophagitis.

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Allergic diseases

Conditions linked to eosinophilic esophagitis, such as asthma and allergies.

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Young individuals and Males

Eosinophilic esophagitis is more common in younger individuals and males.

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Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)

A condition where stomach acid flows back up into the esophagus, causing irritation and damage.

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Transient Lower Esophageal Sphincter Relaxation

A major cause of GERD, characterized by the temporary relaxation of the lower esophageal sphincter.

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Reflux Esophagitis

Inflammation of the esophagus caused by the backflow of stomach acid.

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Barrett's Esophagus

A chronic complication of GERD, characterized by a change in the lining of the esophagus.

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Glandular Metaplasia

A specific type of epithelial cell change that occurs in the esophagus as a result of chronic acid reflux.

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Esophageal Adenocarcinoma

An increased risk of developing this type of cancer is associated with Barrett's Esophagus.

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GERD Risk Factors

Factors such as increased intra-abdominal pressure, smoking, and obesity can increase the risk of GERD.

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Reversibility of Metaplasia

If the cause of acid reflux is eliminated, the metaplasia in Barrett's esophagus may reverse.

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Zenker Diverticulum

A condition where the lower pharyngeal mucosa and submucosa bulge outward due to weak esophageal sphincter and high pressure, common in older men.

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Obstruction

A feeling of food or liquid being trapped in the throat, often accompanied by a gurgling sound.

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Aspiration

Breathing in foreign material into the lungs.

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Halitosis

Bad breath.

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Neck Mass

A visible swelling in the neck, often associated with a Zenker diverticulum.

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Barium Swallow with Videofluoroscopy

A specialized X-ray test using barium contrast to visualize the esophagus and detect abnormalities like a Zenker diverticulum.

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Surgery

Surgical treatment for a Zenker diverticulum, often recommended for symptomatic cases.

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What is Achalasia?

A condition where the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) fails to relax properly, leading to difficulty swallowing and food getting trapped in the esophagus.

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Achalasia Triad

Achalasia is characterized by a triad of symptoms: difficulty swallowing (dysphagia), inability of the LES to relax, and aperistalsis (lack of rhythmic muscle contractions) in the esophagus.

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What is primary Achalasia?

The most common type of achalasia, its cause is unknown.

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What is the pathophysiology of Primary Achalasia?

The result of the degeneration of nitric oxide (NO)-producing neurons in the myenteric plexus of the esophageal wall.

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What is secondary Achalasia?

Caused by a physical obstruction that mimics the symptoms of achalasia.

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What is Chagas Disease?

A disease caused by a parasite (Trypanosoma cruzi) that can cause destruction of the myenteric plexus in the esophagus, resulting in secondary achalasia.

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How does Primary Achalasia affect the LES?

Increased resting pressure of the LES and dysfunctional peristalsis in the esophagus.

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What happens to the esophagus in Achalasia?

Esophageal dilation proximal to the LES, which is a consequence of food getting stuck in the esophagus.

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What is Heller Myotomy?

A procedure that involves surgically cutting the muscle fibers of the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) to relax it and improve swallowing.

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What is LES Resting Pressure?

The pressure measured in the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) when it is at rest.

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What is Esophageal Manometry?

A diagnostic test used to measure the pressure and squeezing ability of the muscles in the esophagus, helping to identify disorders like Achalasia.

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What is Barium Swallow?

An imaging technique used to examine the esophagus, where barium is swallowed to highlight the shape and movement of the esophagus, helping to diagnose Achalasia.

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What is Esophagitis?

A condition characterized by inflammation of the esophagus, often caused by reflux of stomach acid.

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What is Reflux?

The backflow of stomach acid into the esophagus.

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What is Dysphagia?

The process of swallowing.

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What is Mallory-Weiss Syndrome?

Mallory-Weiss syndrome occurs when the lining of the esophagus tears due to forceful vomiting, often caused by alcohol abuse or eating disorders.

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What are the common causes of Mallory-Weiss Syndrome?

Mallory-Weiss syndrome is typically caused by severe vomiting, which can be triggered by excessive alcohol consumption, eating disorders (like bulimia), or even blunt abdominal trauma.

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What are the key symptoms of Mallory-Weiss Syndrome?

The most common symptom of Mallory-Weiss syndrome is hematemesis, which is vomiting blood. Pain in the stomach or back region can also occur.

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How is Mallory-Weiss Syndrome diagnosed?

Mallory-Weiss syndrome is diagnosed through an esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD), a procedure where a flexible tube with a camera is inserted into the esophagus to visualize the tear.

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How is Mallory-Weiss Syndrome treated?

Treatment for Mallory-Weiss syndrome usually involves managing the bleeding, which often stops on its own. In severe cases, surgery may be required to repair the torn blood vessels.

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What is a hiatal hernia?

A hiatal hernia is a condition where a portion of the stomach pushes up into the chest cavity through a weakness in the diaphragm, the muscle that separates the chest and abdomen.

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What causes a hiatal hernia?

Hiatal hernias occur when there is a weakness in the diaphragm, allowing a part of the stomach to protrude into the chest cavity.

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What are the symptoms of a hiatal hernia?

Symptoms of a hiatal hernia include heartburn, indigestion, and difficulty swallowing. In some cases, it can also cause chest pain or shortness of breath.

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Study Notes

School of Medicine - Diseases of the Esophagus

  • The School of Medicine at Universidad Autónoma de Guadalajara focuses on diseases of the esophagus.
  • The faculty includes Ximena Paredes Limon, MD, and Emily Paez Morales, MD.

Objectives

  • Students will apply knowledge of GI anatomy, histology, and physiology to explain clinicopathologic features, diagnostic criteria, and therapies for disorders like inflammation, abnormal GI motility, and gastrointestinal tract obstruction.
  • The pathophysiology and clinicopathological features of specific esophageal disorders will be described, including Zenker diverticulum, achalasia, esophagitis, esophageal reflux, Mallory-Weiss syndrome, and hiatal hernias.
  • Treatment and management options, including lifestyle modifications, pharmacological interventions, and surgical procedures, will be explored.

Esophagus

  • The esophagus is a hollow, highly distensible muscular tube.
  • It spans from the epiglottis in the pharynx to the gastroesophageal junction.
  • Its length ranges from 18 to 26 cm.
  • It acts as a conduit for food transport from the oral cavity to the stomach.
  • The esophageal walls are made up of four layers: mucosa, submucosa, muscularis propria, and adventitia.

Esophageal Constrictions

  • The esophagus has three constrictions: Upper, Middle, and Lower.
  • These constrictions are located at different anatomical regions (C6-C7, T3-T4, and T10-T11).

Esophagus Layers

  • Mucosa:
    • Stratified squamous epithelium (non-keratinized).
    • Muscularis mucosa (smooth muscle within mucosa).
  • Submucosa: Contains blood vessels, Meissner's plexus, and glandular epithelium.
  • Muscularis externa: Contains inner circular and outer longitudinal muscle fibers, with the proximal 1/3 mostly striated muscle and distal 2/3 mostly smooth muscle. The Auerbach's plexus lies between these layers.
  • Adventitia: Consists of dense connective tissue and elastic fibers, attaching the esophagus to the rest of the body.

Esophageal Mucosa

  • Lined by non-keratinizing stratified squamous epithelium transitioning to columnar epithelium at the gastroesophageal junction.

Esophageal Disorders

  • Esophagitis: inflammation of the esophageal mucosa due to direct mucosal injury, inflammatory processes, or substance-induced damage.
  • Eosinophilic esophagitis: Chronic immune-mediated inflammation predominantly caused by eosinophils, often associated with allergic diseases. Symptoms can include dysphagia, food bolus impactions, and food allergen-related symptoms. Diagnosis is confirmed by histopathology showing intraepithelial eosinophil accumulation. Treatment involves restricting exposure to food allergens and using PPI's for 8 weeks.
  • Achalasia: Characterized by an incomplete or absent lower esophageal sphincter relaxation and peristaltic dysfunction leading to dysphagia, regurgitation, retrosternal pain, and weight loss. Diagnosis involves esophageal manometry which reveals uncoordinated peristalsis with an elevated resting LES pressure. Treatment options include Heller myotomy and partial fundoplication or botulinum toxin injections. The etiology can be primary (unknown) or secondary (related to various disorders including Chagas disease).
  • Reflux esophagitis: Reflux of gastric contents into the lower esophagus leads to esophagitis, often due to gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) with esophageal mucosa susceptible to acid damage, but resists abrasive injury. Endoscopic findings include reflux esophagitis. Grading (A-D) is based upon the degree of mucosal injury.
  • Barrett's esophagus: A complication of chronic GERD. Results from the replacement of squamous esophageal epithelium with glandular metaplasia, increasing risk of esophageal adenocarcinoma and has recognizable mucosal tongues of red, velvety mucosa extending upward from the gastroesophageal junction. Diagnosis requires endoscopic evidence of metaplastic columnar mucosa. Microscopically, intestinal-type metaplasia is recognized in tissue samples where goblet cells are characteristic of Barrett's condition.
  • Esophageal varices: Dilated veins within the lower esophagus, caused by portal hypertension.
  • Zenker diverticulum: An outpouching of the lower pharyngeal mucosa and submucosa, often in older men and caused by inadequate relaxation of the upper esophageal sphincter. It is diagnosed via barium swallow with videofluoroscopy and treatment is often surgical, depending on the extent of the pouch.
  • Mallory-Weiss Syndrome: Longitudinal mucosal lacerations of the gastroesophageal junction, commonly caused by severe vomiting, often associated with acute alcohol intoxication or bulimia, and characterized by hematemesis. Diagnostically, using EGD is helpful in ruling out other reasons for upper GI bleeding. Surgical ligation of bleeding vessels may be a treatment option for advanced cases.

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Diseases Of The Esophagus PDF

Description

Test your knowledge on various esophageal disorders, including eosinophilic esophagitis and achalasia. This quiz covers key symptoms, diagnostic criteria, and treatment options. Challenge yourself with detailed questions related to esophageal conditions and their management.

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