Esophageal Varices: Classification

Classification of esophageal varices by stage.

Stage Appearance and characteristics
I Ectasias (sac-like dilatation) of submucosal (“located below the mucosa”) veins; characteristic: they disappear on air insufflation (air injection)
II Single varices protruding into the lumen of the esophagus; characteristic: they persist with air insufflation
III Variceal cords constrict the lumen of the esophagus; “cherry red spots” may exist on the mucosa (mucosa)
IV The lumen of the esophagus is obstructed by the variceal cords; the mucosa (mucous membrane) has many erosions (“defects”)

Depending on the stage, the risk of bleeding can be assessed.