Could an edoscopic investigation that shows lesion in lower esophagus with some ulceration and gastritis be caused by anti-inflammatory drugs or more likely be cancer in 78 yr old male.

Family practice : Use of anti inflammatories can cause gastritis and esophageal ulcers but the lesion in your age group is bothersome. Wait for biopsy report and follow up with your dr. Stop your NSAID until seen.

Need a biopsy: An ulcerated lesion at the distal esophagus can be from esophagitis due to reflux, but can be from other causes, such as cancer. Other causes include hiatal hernia and paraesophageal hernias. Risk factors such as tobacco use and alcohol intake can increase the risk of this being cancer. In any case, a brushing or biopsy can make the diagnosis, as well as response to medical therapy.