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Gastroenterology (Expert Forum)
Esophogial Varices
This forum is for questions regarding Gastroenterology issues such as Acid Reflux (GERD), Barretts Esophagus, Colitis, Colon/Bowel Disorders, Crohn's Disease, Diverticulitis/ Diverticulosis, Digestive Disorders, IBS, Stomach Pain.
Esophogial Varices
by Trish, Oct 23, 1999 12:00AM
My husband was electrocuted in August. In follow-up testing the Dr. discovered that his bilirubin level was elevated .3. Further testing also showed the appearance of anti-smooth muscle antibody. EGD showed gastritis and 2, 2+ varices. He also has an inherited blood disorder, spherocytosis. Could either the spherocytosis and/or the electrocution cause the varices? His liver function tests are normal, and he has no symptoms at all.
Doctor's Answer
by HFHSM.D-Gastro-RF, Oct 31, 1999 12:00AM
Dear Trish,
The most common causes for portal hypertension (which causes varices) are alcohol and chronic viral hepatitis. Autoimmune liver disease and metabolic liver disease are unusual. In North America nonviral infections and industrial exposures are unusual causes. Obstruction of the portal or splenic vein (due to infection or inflammation) would also be unusual. However, your husbands condition is also uncommon in that we do not see many people who have survived major electrocution.
An elevation of bilirubin of 0.3 is minimal and I am uncertain as to the clinical significance of such a finding. Spherocytosis could potentially be a factor if he has significant hemolysis and frequently requires transfusions.
If you or your husband are concerned, ask your doctor to arrange an evaluation by a hepatologist.
The most common causes for portal hypertension (which causes varices) are alcohol and chronic viral hepatitis. Autoimmune liver disease and metabolic liver disease are unusual. In North America nonviral infections and industrial exposures are unusual causes. Obstruction of the portal or splenic vein (due to infection or inflammation) would also be unusual. However, your husbands condition is also uncommon in that we do not see many people who have survived major electrocution.
An elevation of bilirubin of 0.3 is minimal and I am uncertain as to the clinical significance of such a finding. Spherocytosis could potentially be a factor if he has significant hemolysis and frequently requires transfusions.
If you or your husband are concerned, ask your doctor to arrange an evaluation by a hepatologist.
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Where can we get more information about esophogeal varices? We have been told that this can be a life-threatening condition. Can any measures be taken to prevent further damage or heal the damage that already exists?
Thank you!