^
Fact-checked
х

All iLive content is medically reviewed or fact checked to ensure as much factual accuracy as possible.

We have strict sourcing guidelines and only link to reputable media sites, academic research institutions and, whenever possible, medically peer reviewed studies. Note that the numbers in parentheses ([1], [2], etc.) are clickable links to these studies.

If you feel that any of our content is inaccurate, out-of-date, or otherwise questionable, please select it and press Ctrl + Enter.

Esophageal ulcer - Diagnosis

Medical expert of the article

Gastroenterologist
, medical expert
Last reviewed: 06.07.2025

Diagnosis of esophageal ulcers consists of the following measures:

Esophagoscopy

V. M. Nechaev (1997) describes three forms of esophageal ulcers.

  1. A focal ulcer is a small ulceration (0.3-1 cm in diameter) with clear, smooth, non-raised edges. Peristalsis is preserved, and there is no rigidity of the walls.
  2. Deep ulcer - larger in size (0.5-3 cm in diameter) with clear, even edges rising above the surrounding tissue, peristalsis is preserved.
  3. Flat-infiltrative ulcer - in the form of a flat infiltrate with a diameter of 0.3-3 cm with clear boundaries, hyperemic edges, covered with fibrin.

For differential diagnosis with esophageal cancer, all ulcers require a biopsy of the esophageal mucosa followed by histological examination.

X-ray of the esophagus

The main radiographic sign of an esophageal ulcer is a "niche" (i.e. a round or triangular protrusion on the contour of the esophageal shadow), with convergence of the folds of the esophageal mucosa often occurring in the direction of the ulcer. An indirect sign of an ulcer is a persistent contrast spot on the inner surface of the esophagus after the passage of a barium suspension through it.

Daily gastroesophageal pH-metry

This method allows us to prove the presence of a hernia of the esophageal opening of the diaphragm, cardiac insufficiency, and gastroesophageal reflux disease.

Virological examination of biopsy

It is performed to prove the viral etiology of esophageal ulcer. The polymerase chain reaction and DNA hybridization in situ reaction are used.


The iLive portal does not provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.
The information published on the portal is for reference only and should not be used without consulting a specialist.
Carefully read the rules and policies of the site. You can also contact us!

Copyright © 2011 - 2025 iLive. All rights reserved.