The Epidemiology and Pathogenesis of Gastrointestinal Varices

Gastrointestinal varices are a consequence of portal hypertension that can occur in the setting of cirrhosis or extrahepatic portal vein obstruction. Increased intrahepatic vascular resistance, a hyperdynamic circulation, and increased flow through the portal and collateral venous system lead to persistently elevated portal pressures that result in angiogenesis and formation of collaterals between the portal and systemic circulation. Despite this physiologic attempt at decompression, portal hypertension persists as collateral vessels have higher resistance than the normal liver.
Source: Techniques in Gastrointestinal Endoscopy - Category: Gastroenterology Authors: Tags: SI: Management of Variceal GI Bleeding Source Type: research