ESOPHAGEAL VARICES A. Dilated submucosal veins in the lower esophagus B. Arise secondary to portal hypertension 1. Distal esophageal vein normally drains into the portal vein via t... ESOPHAGEAL VARICES A. Dilated submucosal veins in the lower esophagus B. Arise secondary to portal hypertension 1. Distal esophageal vein normally drains into the portal vein via the left gastric vein. 2. In portal hypertension, the left gastric vein backs up into the esophageal vein, resulting in dilation (varices). C. Asymptomatic, but risk of rupture exists 1. Presents with painless hematemesis 2. Most common cause of death in cirrhosis
Understand the Problem
The question is providing information about esophageal varices, including their characteristics, causes, symptoms, and implications related to cirrhosis. This is a descriptive and informational query about a medical condition rather than a specific question that requires an answer.
Answer
Dilated veins in the lower esophagus due to portal hypertension; risk of rupture causing painless hematemesis.
Esophageal varices are dilated submucosal veins in the lower esophagus that arise due to portal hypertension. In portal hypertension, the increased pressure in the left gastric vein backs up into the esophageal veins, causing their dilation. They are asymptomatic but have a risk of rupture, presenting as painless hematemesis, and are a common cause of death in cirrhosis.
Answer for screen readers
Esophageal varices are dilated submucosal veins in the lower esophagus that arise due to portal hypertension. In portal hypertension, the increased pressure in the left gastric vein backs up into the esophageal veins, causing their dilation. They are asymptomatic but have a risk of rupture, presenting as painless hematemesis, and are a common cause of death in cirrhosis.
More Information
Esophageal varices can lead to significant medical emergencies due to potential bleeding. Management includes monitoring and treating portal hypertension to reduce risks.
Tips
A common mistake is overlooking the asymptomatic nature of esophageal varices before rupture. Monitoring for portal hypertension symptoms is crucial.
Sources
- Esophageal Varices - StatPearls - NCBI Bookshelf - ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
- Esophageal varices - Symptoms and causes - Mayo Clinic - mayoclinic.org
- Esophageal Varices: Symptoms, Causes & Treatment - my.clevelandclinic.org
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