Esophageal disorders related to medication, trauma, and infection

Any pill or capsule may cause esophageal injury. Tetracyline antibiotics are the most common cause of pill-induced esophageal injury. Symptoms may overlap with coronary or pulmonary disease. Prevention requires remaining in an upright position for at least 30 minutes after taking a medication, and taking with a full glass of water. Esophageal injury may occur from iatrogenic causes, blunt or penetrating trauma, or spontaneously. The incidence of perforations is increasing with the proliferation of endoscopic procedures, which are now the most frequent cause. Infection with Candida albicans is the most common esophageal infection in immunocompetent patients. Risk factors for infection include underlying esophageal disorders, especially those causing stasis, and medications. Underlying medical disorders that may predispose to esophageal infection include alcoholism, adrenal insufficiency, and diabetes mellitus.