Gastrointestinal Pathology · Pathology

Esophageal varices are most commonly a consequence of which physiological state?

  1. Severe acid reflux
  2. Portal hypertension due to liver cirrhosis
  3. Candidiasis of the esophagus
  4. Squamous cell carcinoma causing esophageal obstruction
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Correct answer: Portal hypertension due to liver cirrhosis

Portal hypertension causes blood to be shunted from the portal system to the systemic venous system. The collateral veins in the distal esophagus become dilated and prone to rupture, leading to life-threatening hemorrhage.

Difficulty: Medium Question 19 of 20

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