What Can an Upper Endoscopy Detect?
An upper endoscopy allows a gastroenterologist to examine the lining of the upper digestive tract in real time. The procedure can help identify visible abnormalities, investigate persistent symptoms and collect tissue samples when more information is needed.
Upper endoscopy is also called upper GI endoscopy or EGD, short for esophagogastroduodenoscopy. It examines three areas: the esophagus, stomach and duodenum, which is the first portion of the small intestine.
Why Might a Doctor Recommend an Upper Endoscopy?
A gastroenterologist may recommend an upper endoscopy to investigate symptoms such as:
Persistent or difficult-to-control heartburn
Upper abdominal pain
Difficulty or pain with swallowing
Ongoing nausea or vomiting
Unexplained anemia
Signs of upper gastrointestinal bleeding
Unexplained weight loss
Food feeling stuck when swallowing
These symptoms can have many possible causes. An upper endoscopy gives the physician a direct view that other tests may not provide.
Conditions an Upper Endoscopy May Help Identify
Esophagitis
Esophagitis is inflammation of the esophagus. It may be associated with acid reflux, certain medications, allergies, infections or other conditions. During an EGD, the physician can look for redness, irritation, erosions or other changes.
Barrett’s Esophagus
Barrett’s esophagus is a change in the tissue lining the lower esophagus that can occur in some people with chronic gastroesophageal reflux disease. Diagnosis generally involves both the endoscopic appearance and examination of biopsy samples.
Peptic Ulcers
An upper endoscopy can identify ulcers in the stomach or duodenum. These are open sores in the digestive lining. If an ulcer is found, the physician may take tissue samples or recommend additional testing to help determine the cause.
Gastritis and Duodenitis
Inflammation can affect the stomach, known as gastritis, or the duodenum, known as duodenitis. Because several conditions can produce similar symptoms, the appearance of the tissue and any biopsy results can help guide diagnosis.
Narrowing or Strictures
A narrowed area of the esophagus may make swallowing difficult or cause food to feel stuck. Upper endoscopy allows the gastroenterologist to locate and assess a narrowing. In some cases, treatment may be performed during an endoscopic procedure when medically appropriate.
Hiatal Hernia
A hiatal hernia occurs when part of the stomach moves upward through the diaphragm. An upper endoscopy may identify features of a hiatal hernia and assess whether inflammation or other abnormalities are also present.
Celiac Disease
When celiac disease is suspected, a gastroenterologist may take small samples from the duodenum. A pathologist examines the tissue for characteristic changes. Blood testing and other clinical information may also be part of the evaluation.
Sources of Bleeding
Upper endoscopy may locate bleeding from ulcers, enlarged veins, inflammation or other abnormalities. Depending on the finding, some types of bleeding can be treated through the endoscope.
Polyps, Growths and Abnormal Tissue
An EGD can reveal polyps, masses or tissue that looks unusual. Finding an abnormal area does not by itself establish a diagnosis. The physician may collect a biopsy so a pathologist can examine the cells under a microscope.
Can an Upper Endoscopy Detect Cancer?
An upper endoscopy can identify suspicious tissue in the esophagus, stomach or duodenum. A biopsy is generally needed to determine whether abnormal tissue is cancerous. Many abnormalities found during endoscopy are not cancer, but they still may require testing, treatment or monitoring.
Does a Normal Endoscopy Rule Out Every Digestive Condition?
No. An upper endoscopy is valuable for examining the lining of the upper digestive tract, but it does not evaluate every digestive organ or explain every symptom. Some conditions require blood tests, imaging, functional testing or other examinations. Your gastroenterologist will interpret the procedure in the context of your symptoms and health history.
Upper Endoscopy in Smithtown, NY
Smithtown Ambulatory Surgery Center provides physician-led outpatient upper endoscopy procedures in Nesconset for patients from Smithtown and surrounding Long Island communities. If your gastroenterologist has recommended an EGD, ask what the procedure is intended to evaluate and how you will receive the results.
This article is for general educational purposes and is not a substitute for individualized medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.