Esophageal varices

Overview 
Theory 
Diagnosis 
Management 
Follow up 
Resources 

Prognosis depends on the etiologies of the portal hypertension leading to the development of varices and also on the liver function status. Decompensated cirrhosis is defined by ascites, variceal bleeding, encephalopathy, and/or jaundice.

Patients who have esophageal variceal bleeding have a 1-year overall mortality of 30% to 40%. Patients who have esophageal varices without bleeding or ascites (compensated cirrhosis) have a mortality rate of 3.4% per year.[41]

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