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Esophagitis
Alternate Names : Inflammation - Esophagus
Definition Esophagitis is inflammation, irritation, and swelling of the esophagus, the tube that leads from the back of the mouth to the stomach.
Pictures & Images
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Overview, Causes, & Risk Factors
Esophagitis is frequently caused by backflow of acid-containing fluid from the stomach to the esophagus (gastroesophageal reflux). It can also be caused by vomiting, surgery, medications or hernias.
In patients with weakened immune systems caused by HIV and certain medications (such as corticosteroids), esophagitis may be caused by an infection of the esophagus. Esophageal infection can be caused by viruses (such as herpes or cytomegalovirus) and fungi or yeast (especially Candida infections).
The infection or irritation can cause the tissues to become inflamed and can occasionally cause ulcers. There may also be difficulty when swallowing, and a burning sensation in esophagus.
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• Definition
• Esophagitis Overview, Causes, & Risk Factors
• Esophagitis Symptoms & Signs
• Esophagitis Diagnosis & Tests
• Esophagitis Treatment
• Esophagitis Prognosis
• Esophagitis Complications
• Calling Your Health Care Provider
• Pictures & Images
Topics that might be of interest to you Diseases & Conditions
• Barrett's Esophagus
• Candida Esophagitis
• CMV Esophagitis
• Dehydration
• Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease
• Herpes Esophagitis
Tests & Exams
• Biopsy
• Endoscopy
Other Topics
• Nausea and Vomiting
• Swallowing Difficulty
Review Date : 11/9/2002
Reviewed By : Andrew J. Muir, M.D., M.H.S., Division of Gastroenterology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.
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