Ectopic gastric mucosa in the upper esophagus: detection and radiographic findings.
OBJECTIVE
To detect and characterize the appearance of islands of ectopic gastric mucosa in the upper esophagus at routine examination of the upper gastrointestinal (GI) tract.


METHODS
Well-distended upper esophagus was documented with spot radiographs obtained with routine double-contrast examination performed after administration of high-density barium in nine patients. Detected lesions were confirmed by means of endoscopy and biopsy.


RESULTS
Twelve lesions were detected. Radiographic findings were characterized by either a discrete, shallow depression surrounded by a subtle, rimlike elevation on double-contrast images or by a pair of small indentations on the same wall on full-column, single-contrast images at the level of the thoracic inlet. Endoscopic examination revealed well-circumscribed areas of reddish mucosa located 15-26 cm from the incisors.


CONCLUSIONS
Ectopic gastric mucosa in the upper esophagus is easily demonstrated at routine examination of the upper GI tract. Diagnosis can be based on location and characteristic radiographic appearance.
Ueno
J
J
Department of Radiology, University of Iowa College of Medicine, Iowa City.
Davis
S W
SW
Tanakami
A
A
Seo
K
K
Yoshida
S
S
Nishitani
H
H
Irie
H
H
Lu
C C
CC
D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D001466:Barium Sulfate; D001706:Biopsy; D002828:Choristoma / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging* / Q000473:pathology; D004935:Esophageal Diseases / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging* / Q000473:pathology; D004947:Esophagus / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000473:pathology; D005260:Female; D005753:Gastric Mucosa; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D011859:Radiography
D001466:Barium Sulfate