Endoscopic Grading of Caustic Ingestion Injuries (Zargar Classification)
Endoscopic findings in suspected caustic ingestion are commonly graded using the Zargar classification of esophageal mucosal injury. [1]
Grade 0
- Normal esophageal mucosa. [1]
Grade 1
- Mucosal edema and hyperemia. [1]
Grade 2a
- Friability, hemorrhage, erosions, blisters, whitish membranes, exudates, and superficial ulcerations. [1]
Grade 2b
- Deep or circumferential ulceration in addition to Grade 2a lesions. [1]
Grade 3a
- Small and scattered areas of necrosis. [1]
Grade 3b
- Extensive necrosis. [1]
Clinical Use of the Endoscopic Grade
Higher Zargar grades correspond to more severe esophageal injury and higher risk of complications. [1]