| Classification of esophageal varices | ||
| Grade | Endoscopic appearance | |
| I. | Dilated venes (< 5mm) still at the level of the surrounding tissue | |
| II. | Dilated, straight venes (> 5 mm) protruding into the esophageal lumen but bot obstructing it | |
| III. | Large, tense and winding venes already obstructing the esophageal lumen considerably | |
| IV. | near complete obstruction of the esophageal lumen with impending danger of hemorrhage (cherry red spots) | |
