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Schatzki ring
Pathology:
- lower esophageal narrowing at the junction of the squamous & columnar epithelium
- the upper surface of the mucosal ring exhibits stratified squamous epithelium
- the lower part is lined with columnar epithelium
- mild chronic inflammation & fibrosis is common in the submucosa
Clinical manifestations:
- seldom symptomatic
- intermittent dysphagia to solid foods is the most common complaint
Special laboratory:
- esophageal endoscopy (image) [2]
- thin, smooth benign ring of mucosa proximal to the gastroesophageal junction
Radiology:
- visible on barium swallow (image) [2]
Differential diagnosis:
- achalasia (dysphagia for liquids & solids)
- eosinophilic esophagitis (reaction to foods, allergens, mucosal fragility)
- esophageal carcinoma (esophageal mass lesion)
- Barrett esophagitis (GERD, no dysphagia) [3]
Management:
- balloon dilation or Savary dilation
General
abnormal morphologic structure (malformation)
esophageal disease
References
- Rubin & Farber, Pathology, 2nd ed. JB Lippincott
Philadelphia, 1994, pg 621
- Vasudeva R, Katz J (images)
Medscape: Schatzki Ring
http://emedicine.medscape.com/article/182647-overview
- NEJM Knowledge+ Gastroenterology