Upper Gastrointestinal Endoscopy
An upper endoscopy uses a flexible camera to examine the esophagus, stomach, and first part of the small intestine.
["This test can identify inflammation, ulcers, bleeding, narrowing, or other problems in the upper digestive tract."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 67219-6
- Short code
- Upper endoscopy PhenX
- Synonyms
- Upper endoscopy PhenX
- Category
- liver
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- phenx
- Specimen volume
- 5 mL
- Stability
- Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
- Hemolysis max
- 500
- Lipemia max
- 1000
- Icterus max
- 500
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
What is this test?
An upper endoscopy, also called esophagogastroduodenoscopy or an upper GI endoscopy, is a procedure in which a doctor passes a flexible lighted tube through the mouth to examine the esophagus, stomach, and duodenum. The scope may also be used to collect fluid or tissue samples.
Why might I need this test?
Upper endoscopy may be recommended for persistent heartburn, trouble swallowing, upper abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, unexplained bleeding, anemia, or a need to investigate abnormal imaging or laboratory findings. It can also be used to monitor certain conditions or treat problems such as bleeding.
How is the test performed?
You will usually receive medication to help you relax, and a local anesthetic is often applied to the throat. The doctor then guides the scope into the upper digestive tract, examines the lining, and may take biopsies or perform a minor treatment. The procedure generally takes less than an hour, and recovery afterward can take a few hours.
How do I prepare for the test?
Follow the clinic's instructions about fasting and medications. You may need to stop eating or drinking for several hours beforehand. Tell the care team about diabetes medicines, blood thinners, allergies, pregnancy, and any previous anesthesia problems, because these can affect preparation and sedation.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Findings may indicate reflux injury, esophagitis, gastritis, peptic ulcers, bleeding, narrowing, or precancerous changes. Biopsy results, if taken, can identify inflammation, infection, or abnormal cells. A normal examination does not rule out every digestive condition, so results should be discussed with the ordering clinician.
Short name
Upper endoscopy
Frequently asked questions
Is upper endoscopy painful?
Will I need someone to drive me home?
What happens if a biopsy is taken?
Sources
- 1
- 2Lab Tests OnlineSource
- 3
Click any link to access the full source. PubMed Central (PMC) links provide free full-text access.
This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
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 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy