Gastroösophageale

Gastroösophageale, or gastroesophageal, is an adjective used in medical terminology to describe the stomach–esophagus region and the structures, functions, and diseases that involve both organs. It typically refers to the gastroesophageal junction, the area where the esophagus meets the stomach.

Anatomically, the gastroesophageal junction includes the lower esophageal sphincter, the surrounding diaphragmatic crura, and the mucosal lining of the distal esophagus and proximal stomach. This region normally acts as a barrier to prevent reflux of stomach contents into the esophagus; disruption can lead to gastroesophageal reflux.

Common gastroesophageal disorders include gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), esophagitis, Barrett's esophagus, and, more rarely, esophageal cancer. Esophageal motility disorders such as achalasia also affect the gastroesophageal tract. Symptoms often include heartburn, regurgitation, dysphagia, chest pain, and chronic cough.

Evaluation typically involves endoscopy to visualize mucosa, ambulatory pH monitoring or impedance testing to assess reflux, and esophageal manometry to test motility. Imaging like a barium swallow may be used in selected cases.

Management combines lifestyle modifications (weight loss, diet changes, head-of-bed elevation), and pharmacologic therapy (antacids, histamine-2 blockers, proton pump inhibitors). Refractory cases may require endoscopic therapy or surgical options such as fundoplication, with treatment tailored to the underlying condition and patient factors.