Diseases An Endoscopy Can Detect

Mar 17, 2023

An endoscopy allows doctors to see the upper digestive tract up close. From acid reflux to esophageal cancer, doctors are able to diagnose a wide spectrum of illnesses through endoscopy. Upper gastrointestinal (GI) endoscopy is referred to by the abbreviation “endoscopy”. The esophagus, stomach, and duodenum—the beginning of the small intestine—are included in this.

An upper GI endoscopy can assist medical professionals in identifying issues that affect the GI tract’s upper portion as well as surrounding organs like the pancreas and liver.

What Happens During Endoscopy?

Endoscopy is often performed by a doctor while you are only mildly sedated, but it is possible that it will make you sleepy. Throughout the procedure, an endoscope is used, a flexible tool with a light and camera on end.

The scope is put into your mouth by your doctor, who then slides it down your esophagus to your stomach and the start of the small intestine while watching on a video screen. Other tools will be available to the care team to gather tissue samples and maybe treat specific disorders.

What Conditions Can An Upper Endoscopy Diagnose?

Doctors can use upper GI endoscopy to identify and treat a wide range of illnesses and issues with the structural health of these organs:

– Esophagus
– Stomach
– Duodenum

The endoscopic ultrasonography procedure (EUS) is a distinct process. It makes use of ultrasonic waves to aid medical professionals in examining organs beneath the linings of those above. Doctors may use EUS to assess the:

– Pancreas
– Liver
– Bile ducts

Bowel Cancer and Polyps

One of the primary purposes of endoscopy is the early detection, prevention, and treatment of bowel cancer. Bowel cancer, often known as colorectal cancer, is the second most prevalent cause of cancer death and the most frequently diagnosed internal cancer. Early bowel cancer treatment, whether it be during an endocopy or by surgery, is typically curative.

Peptic Ulcers

The tissue lining one or more areas of the upper GI tract can become inflamed and eroded, resulting in an open sore known as a peptic ulcer. The following conditions can be identified via an upper GI endoscopy with a biopsy:

– Stomach, known as a gastric ulcer
– Duodenum, known as a duodenal ulcer
– Esophagus, known as an esophageal ulcer

Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease

When stomach acid escapes into the esophagus, it causes gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), which is a disorder. The esophageal lining might get damaged by GERD. As a result of weight problems, also leads to Barrett’s esophagus, the formation of abnormal cells that can cause cancer, for which you can consult with an endoscopic sleeve gastroplasty based on a doctor’s recommendation.