esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD) /ə·sof′əgōgas′ trōdo̅o̅′odənos′kəpe/ , an endoscopic test that permits direct visualization of the upper GI tract. Insertion of a long, flexible, fiberoptic-lighted scope allows examination of tumors, varices, mucosal inflammations, hiatal hernias, polyps, ulcers, and obstructions. This test evaluates patients with dysphagia, weight loss, early satiety, upper abdominal pain, ulcer symptoms, or dyspepsia and is also used therapeutically for electrocoagulation, laser coagulation, or injection of sclerosing agents.
