Erosive esophagitis is a condition in which areas of the esophageal lining are inflamed and worn away.
The most common cause of erosive esophagitis is chronic acid reflux. Corrosive substances, such as cleaning solutions, can erode the esophagus if they are swallowed accidentally or deliberately, as in a suicide attempt. Some pills (for example, aspirin or other nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs [NSAIDs], and certain large iron and potassium tablets) can cause painful erosions if they lodge temporarily in the esophagus.
Diagnosis of erosive esophagitis is made by esophagoscopy. If an erosion results from a pill, the pill usually can be washed down with large quantities of water; the pain often resolves within hours. Rarely, erosions caused by corrosive substances or pills persist, leading to narrowing of the esophagus.
2007-02-15 21:26:34
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answer #1
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answered by RadTech - BAS RT(R)(ARRT) 7
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