Path question re: esophageal varices

[kuv101DDS]

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I'd like some input on this question,
What is the most common cause of a massive hematemesis in alcoholics?
Ans: Esophageal varices (by means of hepatic damage from cirrhosis - portal hypertension - esophageal vein dilation - rupture)
My concern: Another choice was Mallory-Weiss Syndromre which is a rupture in the lining near the stomach and duodenum from excessive vomitting (seen in alcoholics). So, they both cause hematemesis in alcoholics. Are we positive that esophageal varices is "the most common cause" of a massive hematemesis in alkys?

 

[monreal]

I'd like some input on this question,
What is the most common cause of a massive hematemesis in alcoholics?
Ans: Esophageal varices (by means of hepatic damage from cirrhosis - portal hypertension - esophageal vein dilation - rupture)
My concern: Another choice was Mallory-Weiss Syndromre which is a rupture in the lining near the stomach and duodenum from excessive vomitting (seen in alcoholics). So, they both cause hematemesis in alcoholics. Are we positive that esophageal varices is "the most common cause" of a massive hematemesis in alkys?

They ask about the cause!
Mallory-Weiss is a syndrome, and the syndrome is a groupe of signs and symptoms, NOT a cause of anything!😉

 

[dent2k4]

I'd like some input on this question,
What is the most common cause of a massive hematemesis in alcoholics?
Ans: Esophageal varices (by means of hepatic damage from cirrhosis - portal hypertension - esophageal vein dilation - rupture)
My concern: Another choice was Mallory-Weiss Syndromre which is a rupture in the lining near the stomach and duodenum from excessive vomitting (seen in alcoholics). So, they both cause hematemesis in alcoholics. Are we positive that esophageal varices is "the most common cause" of a massive hematemesis in alkys?

Even though both esophageal varices and mallory-weiss cause bleeding in alcoholics, esophageal varices is the right answer. In the qestion it is asked for massive bleeding. The torn mucosa might bleed for some time after which the blood vessels constrict due to the fact that inflammatory reactions begin. But in case of esophageal varices you have the dilated torturous veins which do not stop bleeding on its own when once ruptured and hence lead to massive blood loss.

 

[Boetlaar]

portal hypertension related esophegeal varices are much more common than Mallory Weiss syndrome (though both do occur in alcoholics.) so if we are going for the most common it would be esophegeal varices

 

[kuv101DDS]

Thanks, I agree. Appreciate the input