Infectious and Noninfectious Esophagitis

Abstract

In addition to gastroesophageal reflux, which is the most common cause of esophagitis, there are various etiologic factors that can cause esophageal injury (Table 3.1). In immunocompromised patients, infectious esophagitis due to viruses or fungi is frequently observed. Although pathologic review is necessary to confirm the diagnosis of viral esophagitis, endoscopic examination is very useful to diagnose Candida esophagitis that presents with typical multiple white plaques. Esophagitis can develop due to various noninfectious causes such as trauma, chemical injury, and radiation. In these cases, precise history taking in addition to endoscopic findings is important. In pill-induced esophagitis, symmetrical kissing-type ulcers are frequently noted. Esophagitis can also present as a clinical manifestation in other systemic or skin diseases. In this chapter, endoscopic findings of various types of esophagitis besides reflux esophagitis will be discussed with examples.