Benign esophageal tumors: esophagoscopy and endoscopic esophageal ultrasound.

Benign esophageal tumors are uncommon. Flexible fiberoptic esophagoscopy (esophagoscopy) has improved detection but is ineffective in classification of extramucosal tumors. Endoscopic esophageal ultrasound (EUS) is vital in diagnosis. Small lesions that have either a homogeneous anechoic, intermediate, or hyperechoic pattern are almost exclusively benign. These findings, plus the determination of the layer of origin within the esophageal wall, permit precise and accurate noninvasive diagnosis. The diagnosis of a benign esophageal tumor by esophagoscopy and EUS in an asymptomatic patient requires, at most, surveillance but no therapy. Copyright 2003 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.