Corrosive injuries of the esophagus by accident or suicidal attempt, though decreasing in number, still represent an important problem of our national pathology. One of the most difficult problem faced by physician is the diagnosis and management of caustic ingestion. In order to determine the extent of esophageal burns, to prevent the potential complication, to increase the therapeutic effect, the use of esophagoscopy is an essential step, and it has lessened an unnecessary admission and treatment. The authors have found the value of early esophagoscopy in selected 41 corrosive esophagitis patients who were admitted to Dept. of ENT, Wonju medical college, Yonsei university between 1980. 1-1982.12.