Tuberculosis (TB) is a potentially serious infectious disease that mainly affects your lungs. The bacteria that cause tuberculosis are spread from one person to another through tiny droplets released into the air via coughs and sneezes. Once rare in developed countries, tuberculosis infections began increasing in 1985, partly because of the emergence of HIV, the virus that causes AIDS.
Upper Endoscopy (EGD) What is Upper Endoscopy (EGD)? An esophago-gastro-duodenoscopy (EGD) is a procedure that allows your physician to examine the lining of the upper part of your gastrointestinal tract, including the esophagus, stomach and the duodenum (the beginning part of your small intestines).
Upper endoscopy uses a thin scope with a light and camera at its tip to look inside of the upper digestive system -- the esophagus, stomach, and the first part of the small intestine, called the duodenum. During endoscopy, certain procedures such as taking a small tissue sample (biopsy) for testing may be performed. Sometimes, the procedure is done in emergencies in the hospital or emergency room to both identify and treat upper digestive system bleeding such as from an ulcer.