Esophageal Varices (EV)

Esophageal varices are extremely dilated sub-mucosal veins in the lower third of the esophagus. They are most often a consequence of portal hypertension, commonly due to cirrhosis; patients with esophageal varices have a strong tendency to develop bleeding. Esophageal varices are typically diagnosed through an esophagogastroduodenoscopy. In emergency situations, care is directed at stopping blood loss, maintaining plasma volume, correcting disorders in coagulation induced by cirrhosis, and appropriate use of antibiotics such as quinolone or ceftriaxone. Blood volume resuscitation should be done promptly and with caution.