Evaluation and Management of Post-caustic Stenosis

After caustic ingestion, patients may be either asymptomatic or may exhibit a variety of initial signs and symptoms, depending on the digestive segment predominantly affected. The DROOL system is a noninvasive scoring method used for the evaluation of esophageal lesions and has a good correlation with the development of esophageal stenosis. Management of these patients depends on several factors, including the presence of the symptomatology, in addition to the nature of the caustic substance. Upper endoscopy is indicated in the first 48 hours or after the first two weeks, when it is recommended to start endoscopic dilation sessions. If endoscopic treatment is inefficient, surgical treatment is required.