Mallory-Weiss tear

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Mallory-Weiss tear

Stomach and stomach lining

A Mallory-Weiss tear occurs in the mucus membrane of the lower part of the esophagus or upper part of the stomach, near where they join. The tear may bleed.

Mucosal lacerations - gastroesophageal junction

Mallory-Weiss tears are usually caused by forceful or long-term vomiting or coughing. They may also be caused by epileptic convulsions, or anything else that increases the pressure inside the abdomen.

Any condition that leads to violent and lengthy bouts of coughing or vomiting can cause these tears.

Review Date: 11/11/2010
Reviewed By: David C. Dugdale, III, MD, Professor of Medicine, Division of General Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Washington School of Medicine; George F. Longstreth, MD, Department of Gastroenterology, Kaiser Permanente Medical Care Program, San Diego, CA. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.

A.D.A.M., Inc. is accredited by URAC, also known as the American Accreditation HealthCare Commission (www.urac.org).

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