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Reflux esophagitis is inflammation of the esophageal mucosa caused by chronic reflux of gastric or duodenal contents into the esophagus, usually due to gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).

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Etiopathogenesis

Pathophysiology:

• Incompetent lower esophageal sphincter (LES) → acid and bile reflux.
• Impaired esophageal clearance + delayed gastric emptying.
• Acid-peptic injury → mucosal inflammation, erosions, ulceration → healing with fibrosis → stricture.

Risk factors:

• GERD (most important).
• Hiatal hernia.
• Obesity, pregnancy, ascites (↑ intra-abdominal pressure).
• Smoking, alcohol, caffeine, fatty/spicy food.
• Drugs: anticholinergics, calcium channel blockers, nitrates.

Clinical Features

Typical GERD symptoms:

• Heartburn (postprandial, nocturnal).
• Regurgitation of acid/bile.

Alarm features (complications):

• Dysphagia (due to stricture).