Esophageal Diseases: Diagnosis and Treatment

The esophagus can be affected by many diseases, whether congenital or acquired. The burning sensation caused in the chest due to acid reflux is a very common esophageal disease. Prolonged exposure to the gastric acids may erode the lining of the esophagus, leading to Barrett's esophagus. It is a clinical condition which is considered a high risk factor for adenocarcinoma. Some of the other conditions of esophagus are Chagas disease, esophageal cancer, esohageal dysphagia, esophagitis, Killian-Jamieson diverticulum, neurogenic dysphagia, Zenker's diverticulum, etc. An X-ray of swallowed barium is generally used to assess the shape and size of the esophagus and any underlying mass. Through a procedure called endoscopy, it is possible to visualize the interior of the esophagus. It also allows a biopsy to be taken that is useful for the diagnosis of cancer. Esophageal cancer is usually managed with chemotherapy, radiotherapy or the partial surgical removal of the esophagus. The topics included in this book on esophageal disease are of utmost significance and bound to provide incredible insights to readers. This book presents researches and studies performed by experts across the globe on the diagnosis and treatment of esophageal diseases. It will prove to be immensely beneficial to students and researchers involved in gastroenterology.