82 bytes added ,  14:41, 11 August 2009
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*aspiration pneumonia (wheezes, coughing)
 
*aspiration pneumonia (wheezes, coughing)
 
*ptyalism
 
*ptyalism
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[[Image:Oesophagitis.jpg|thumb|right|300px|Oesophagitis - Copyright David Walker RVC]]
 
*anorexia
 
*anorexia
 
===Laboratory Tests===
 
===Laboratory Tests===
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*neutrophilia
 
*neutrophilia
 
===Diagnostic Imaging===
 
===Diagnostic Imaging===
The oesophagus is generally normal on routine survey radiographs. Signs of aspiration pneumonia may be seen in ventral lung lobes. It can be better differentiated using barium-contrast studies which may show:
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'''Survey radiographs''': generally normal. Signs of aspiration pneumonia may be seen in ventral lung lobes. It can be better differentiated using barium-contrast studies which may show:
 
*an irregular mucosal surface
 
*an irregular mucosal surface
 
*narrowing
 
*narrowing
 
*a dilated oesophagus
 
*a dilated oesophagus
 
*oesophageal hypomotility
 
*oesophageal hypomotility
To better diagnose oesophagitis, endoscopy with biopsies can be used. Severe oesophagitis will be seen with an oedematous mucosa that is hyperaemic, ulcerated and actively bleeding, whilst less severe cases may require several mucosal biopsies to diagnose the condition.
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'''Endoscopy''': To better diagnose oesophagitis, endoscopy with biopsies can be used. Severe oesophagitis will be seen with an oedematous mucosa that is hyperaemic, ulcerated and actively bleeding, whilst less severe cases may require several mucosal biopsies to diagnose the condition.
 
==Treatment==
 
==Treatment==
 
Mild oesophagitis:  
 
Mild oesophagitis:  
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