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Simultaneous Laryngopharyngeal and Conventional Esophageal pH Monitoring
Published on: December 14, 2020
Pill esophagitis.
1Gastroenterology Service, Walter Reed Army Medical Center, Washington, DC 20307-5001, USA.
Journal of Clinical Gastroenterology
|June 18, 1999
Summary
Pill esophagitis, caused by medications dissolving in the esophagus, can lead to serious complications. Taking pills upright with fluids may reduce the incidence of this iatrogenic injury.
Area of Science:
- Gastroenterology
- Internal Medicine
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Pill-induced esophagitis is an iatrogenic injury resulting from medications dissolving in the esophagus.
- This condition arises when pills fail to pass quickly into the stomach, leading to direct mucosal contact.
- Numerous medications, spanning nearly 100 different types, have been implicated in causing these esophageal injuries.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review a significant number of pill esophagitis cases.
- To analyze the spectrum of injuries associated with pill-induced esophagitis.
- To identify potential strategies for reducing the incidence of this condition.
Main Methods:
- Review of 979 documented cases of pill esophagitis.
- Analysis of the medications involved and the resulting esophageal injuries.
- Examination of patient factors and preventative measures.
Main Results:
- The review encompasses 979 cases linked to approximately 100 distinct medications.
- While most injuries cause self-limited pain, severe outcomes like esophageal hemorrhage, stricture, and perforation have been documented.
- Fatal cases of pill-induced esophagitis have been reported, highlighting the potential severity.
Conclusions:
- Pill-induced esophagitis is a recognized complication of medication use.
- Preventative measures, such as taking medications upright with adequate fluids, can reduce incidence.
- While not entirely preventable, patient education on proper pill ingestion is crucial.
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