Tetracycline-induced proximal oesophagitis

Medication-induced oesophagitis is an unusual cause of oesophageal damage. A patient is presented who developed sudden onset of odynophagia and dysphagia while taking tetracycline. Endoscopy revealed proximal oesophagitis which was confirmed histologically. Symptoms resolved rapidly after stopping the offending drug. Drug-induced oesophagitis should be considered in patients with unexplained oesophageal symptoms. This condition is often unrecognized as symptoms usually resolve on cessation of the drug. Prevention is the best approach.