Dilated veins in the distal esophagus or proximal stomach due to portal hypertension are called what?

• A. Stool guaiac test
• B. Varices
• C. Paracentesis
• D. Ileostomy

Answer: (B)

When portal hypertension raises pressure in the portal venous system, veins that normally drain into it can become enlarged as collateral pathways. In the distal esophagus and proximal stomach, these dilated submucosal veins are called varices. They’re a classic consequence of portal hypertension and are prone to rupture, causing upper GI bleeding. The other terms refer to different things: a stool guaiac test checks for hidden blood in stool, paracentesis is a procedure to remove fluid from the abdominal cavity, and ileostomy is a surgical opening of the ileum to the abdominal wall.