Abstract
Delay in esophageal transit of caustic medicinal pills may precipitate esophageal ulceration. The injury is usually mild, producing only self-limited pain. More serious injury may result in esophageal hemorrhage, perforation, or stricture. Injury is more likely if pills are taken without water or while lying down. Patients with esophageal compression from left atrial enlargement are at increased risk, especially if they have had cardiac surgery.
MeSH terms
-
Adolescent
-
Adult
-
Aged
-
Burns, Chemical* / complications
-
Burns, Chemical* / diagnosis
-
Burns, Chemical* / therapy
-
Capsules*
-
Caustics / adverse effects*
-
Child
-
Esophageal Perforation / chemically induced*
-
Esophageal Perforation / diagnosis
-
Esophageal Perforation / therapy
-
Esophageal Stenosis / chemically induced*
-
Esophageal Stenosis / diagnosis
-
Esophageal Stenosis / therapy
-
Esophagus / injuries*
-
Female
-
Gastrointestinal Hemorrhage / chemically induced
-
Gastrointestinal Hemorrhage / diagnosis
-
Gastrointestinal Hemorrhage / therapy
-
Humans
-
Male
-
Middle Aged
-
Tablets*
Substances
-
Capsules
-
Caustics
-
Tablets