Upper Gastrointestinal Endoscopy

• An upper gastrointestinal endoscopy is the best way to examine your esophagus, stomach, and upper small intestine (duodenum). Your doctor can take a tissue sample to test for Helicobacter pylori infection, which is believed to be the main cause of stomach or duodenal ulcers. To learn more, see the topic Reference Helicobacter Pylori Tests.
• Cancer can be identified or ruled out using endoscopy.
• Endoscopy may be done after an upper gastrointestinal series test identifies a problem. To learn more, see the topic Reference Upper Gastrointestinal Series.
• Endoscopy can be safely performed on small children.
• Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatogram (ERCP) is a test of the ducts that drain the liver, gallbladder, and Reference pancreas Opens New Window. It can be done to find the cause of Reference jaundice Opens New Window if your doctor thinks you may have blockage of the bile or pancreatic ducts and when other tests (such as Reference ultrasound Opens New Window, liver scan, and X-ray studies) are not clear. To learn more, see the topic Reference Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatogram (ERCP).

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