stomach ulcer
May 2, 2012 | 20,00 EUR | answered by Dr. med. Kathrin Hamann
My 21-year-old son, who is severely disabled, had a stomach ulcer until recently. Today we had a check-up and everything seems to be back to normal. However, a narrow prominent fold was discovered in the lower third of the esophagus. A biopsy was taken of it. Isn't a biopsy only done when there is suspicion of cancer?
Hello,
A SH fold (mucosal fold) in the lower third of the esophagus is not necessarily critical. Nevertheless, for safety reasons, clarification should be carried out by taking a sample.
Most SH folds in this area can arise in the context of reflux disease, when stomach acid enters the esophagus. This in itself is not harmful. However, the continuous irritation over time can be a problem. The sensitive mucosa can transform into a cornified layer, known as Barrett's mucosa. This is seen as a precursor to cancer.
Do not worry until the biopsy results are ready.
And most of the time, such a SH fold is completely harmless.
All the best,
Kind regards,
Dr. K. Hamann
(Specialist in General and Internal Medicine: Gastroenterology, Pneumology, Rheumatology)
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