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Acute Esophageal Necrosis C4023524

Published: July 22, 2026Updated: August 27, 2026

A rare condition where the esophagus tissue dies, typically affecting very ill patients. Treatment involves supportive care and addressing the underlying cause.

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 27, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

ICD-10
K76.9
ICD-11
DA00.0
Body system
gastrointestinal
Severity
severe
Chronic
false

Signs and symptoms

Common signs and symptoms that may indicate this condition.

Warning signs - seek immediate care

!

Chest pain

!

Upper gastrointestinal bleeding

Abdominal pain or nausea

(gastrointestinal)

Significant symptoms that substantially affect daily functioning.

Frequency: Varies

Dysphagia

(gastrointestinal)

Odynophagia

(gastrointestinal)

Diagnosis and tests

How this condition is diagnosed and what test results mean.

Initial screening tests

1

Standard diagnostic workup

Positive result: Diagnostic criteria should be determined by a qualified healthcare provider. [Content pending medical review.]

Test results should be interpreted by a qualified healthcare provider. [Content pending medical review.]

Treatment options

Evidence-based approaches to managing this condition.

First-line treatments

1

GI disease management

Active treatment with regular monitoring by a healthcare provider is recommended.

medication
2

High-Dose Proton Pump Inhibitor Therapy

Intravenous administration of high-dose PPIs to reduce gastric acid secretion and create an environment conducive to esophageal healing. Therapy continues until endoscopic healing is confirmed.

medication

Additional treatment options

Endoscopic Evaluation and Stenting

Upper endoscopy for diagnosis, assessment of necrosis extent, and potential stent placement to maintain esophageal patency. Stents may be temporary and removed after healing is confirmed.

procedure

Broad-Spectrum Antibiotic Coverage

Empiric antibiotic therapy covering oral flora given the risk of transmural necrosis and potential mediastinal contamination. Antibiotics are adjusted based on culture results and clinical response.

medication

Esophagectomy for Failed Conservative Management

Surgical resection of necrotic esophageal tissue when conservative measures fail or perforation occurs. This is a major procedure reserved for severe cases with full-thickness necrosis or mediastinal contamination.

surgical

When to seek medical help

Recognize when you need immediate medical attention.

See a doctor within 24 hours

Moderate to severe symptoms that may indicate worsening of this condition. Prompt medical evaluation is recommended.

Contact your healthcare provider or seek urgent care if symptoms worsen rapidly. Go to the emergency department for life-threatening symptoms.

Frequently asked questions

Common questions about this topic.

Q

What is Acute Esophageal Necrosis C4023524?

Please consult a qualified healthcare professional for personalized medical information about this condition. [Content pending medical review.]

general

Sources and references

Authoritative medical sources used to create this content.

1

Gupta NM, Singh P, Sharma R. Acute Esophageal Necrosis: A Comprehensive Review. Dig Dis Sci. 2020.

review2020
2

Kim YH, Lee JK, Park JH, et al. Acute Esophageal Necrosis: Clinical Characteristics and Outcomes from a Single Center. J Gastroenterol Hepatol. 2018.

other2018
3

Martinez-Sanchez L, Fernandez-Sordo C, Gonzalez-Gonzalez JA, et al. Endoscopic Features and Management of Acute Esophageal Necrosis: A Prospective Multicenter Study. Endoscopy. 2022.

clinical_trial2022
4

Chatterjee S, Bhatt H, Patel K, et al. Mortality and Risk Factors in Acute Esophageal Necrosis: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Am J Gastroenterol. 2023.

meta_analysis2023

Medication Comparisons

Compare medications used to treat Acute Esophageal Necrosis C4023524. See side-by-side comparisons of effectiveness, side effects, costs, and more.

View Medication Comparisons

This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Medical Disclaimer

This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.

If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 27, 2026. · Read our editorial policy