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You are here : 3-RX.com > Medical Encyclopedia > Diseases and Conditions > Esophageal Stricture
      Category : Health Centers > Digestive System

Esophageal Stricture

Alternate Names : Esophageal Stenosis

Overview, Causes, & Risk Factors | Symptoms & Signs | Diagnosis & Tests | Prevention & Expectations | Treatment & Monitoring

An esophageal stricture is a gradual narrowing of the tube that carries food to the stomach. It occurs when scar tissue builds up in the tube.

What is going on in the body?

The esophagus is a muscular tube that connects the throat with the stomach. After food enters the tube, muscles behind and in front of the food contract and relax in a rhythmic sequence to force it along toward the stomach.

When part of the lining of the esophagus is damaged, it may become scarred. This makes it fibrous and stiff. A build-up of scar tissue can gradually cause narrowing of part of the esophagus.

What are the causes and risks of the condition?

A ring of muscle called the lower esophageal sphincter surrounds the opening between the esophagus and the stomach. Normally, it opens to allow food to pass into the stomach. If this sphincter weakens or relaxes so that it cannot close tightly, stomach contents splash back up into the esophagus. This is called gastroesophageal reflux and is the cause of heartburn.

The lining of the esophagus is not designed for this kind of abuse. If the problem is chronic, scar tissue may form and lead to a stricture. Less common causes of stricture include:

  • severe or prolonged infections of the esophagus, known as esophagitis
  • swallowing a caustic substance, such as lye
  • complications of medical treatment, such as pill-induced esophagitis
  • cancer of the esophagus

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    Next section

       

    Esophageal Stricture: Symptoms & Signs

    Author: David J. Craner, MD
    Reviewer: Adam Brochert, MD
    Date Reviewed: 09/19/01



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