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Updated: Aug 10, 2026

Diagnosis of Neoplasia in Barrett’s Esophagus using Vital-dye Enhanced Fluorescence Imaging
Published on: May 11, 2014
[Esophageal lesions associated with diphosphonates]
1Medisinsk avdeling Diakonhjemmets sykehus 0319 Oslo.
Background:
Bisphosphonates are potent inhibitors of osteoclast-mediated bone resorption and effective in preventing osteoporotic fractures, but they can occasionally cause oesophageal adverse events.
Material And Methods:
We report on seven patients who developed severe oesophagitis or oesophageal ulceration during treatment with bisphosphonates. They were registered at our endoscopy unit during a 31-month period.
Results:
Six of the patients took alendronate (Fosamax) and one etidronate (Didronate). The oesophageal lesions heal on discontinuation of the bisphosphonate. Institution of gastric acid suppression treatment may enhance the healing process.
Interpretation:
In order to minimise the risk of serious side-effects, it is important to give detailed instructions regarding medication and to ensure that the instructions are properly understood. The risk of serious complications can be reduced by early recognition of oesophageal symptoms and appropriate intervention.
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