Abnormal dilation of the veins in the oesophagus that occurs as the result of cirrhotic liver disease. Oesophageal varices are prone to bleed due to their fragility. ... See: cirrhosis. ... (27 Sep 1997) ... 
swollen veins in the lower oesophagus and possibly the upper part of the stomach; can cause vomiting of blood and passing of black stool