Clinical Presentation & Protocol
Patient Usually Complains Of
Patient presents with persistent dysphagia, odynophagia, and a sensation of retrosternal fullness. Symptoms are chronic, non-progressive, and unrelated to specific food triggers. No history of weight loss, hematemesis, or melena. Patient denies tobacco use or chronic alcohol consumption.
Clinical Examination Findings
Oropharyngeal exam reveals no obvious mucosal lesions. Esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD) demonstrates localized, well-demarcated, white, non-scrapable plaques on the esophageal mucosa. No evidence of ulceration, friability, or bleeding. Remainder of the esophageal mucosa appears unremarkable. Biopsy obtained for histopathological confirmation to rule out dysplasia or squamous cell carcinoma.
Treatment Protocol
Management plan includes histopathological confirmation via endoscopic biopsy. If benign, focus on surveillance and elimination of potential mucosal irritants (tobacco, alcohol, hot liquids). Consider periodic endoscopic monitoring for progression. If dysplasia is identified, discuss endoscopic mucosal resection (EMR) or radiofrequency ablation (RFA) with the patient.