Lower esophageal ring
Alternative Names: Esophagogastric ring; Schatzki's ring
A lower esophageal ring is an abnormal ring of tissue that forms where the esophagus (the tube from the mouth to the stomach) and stomach meet.
Causes of Lower esophageal ring
A lower esophageal ring is a birth defect of the esophagus that occurs in 4% of people. It causes narrowing of the lower esophagus.
Narrowing of the esophagus may also be caused by:
- Injury
- Tumors
- Other causes (See: Esophageal stricture)
Lower esophageal ring Symptoms
For most people, lower esophageal ring does not cause symptoms.
The most common symptom is a sensation that food, especially solids, is stuck in the lower neck or under the breastbone (sternum) when it is swallowed.
Tests and Exams
Tests that show the lower esophageal ring include:
- EGD (esophagogastroduodenoscopy)
- Upper GI (x-ray with barium)
Treatment of Lower esophageal ring
Treatment involves stretching the ring by passing a device called a dilator through the area. Sometimes, a balloon is placed in the area and inflated, which helps widen the abnormal ring.
Prognosis (Outlook)
Swallowing problems may return. Repeated treatments may be needed.
When to Contact a Health Professional
Call for an appointment with your health care provider if you have swallowing problems.
Long JD, Orlando RC. Anatomy, histology, embryology, and developmental anomalies of the esophagus. In: Feldman M, Friedman LS, Brandt LJ, eds. Sleisenger and Fordtran's Gastrointestinal and Liver Disease. 9th ed. Philadelphia, Pa: Saunders Elsevier;2010: chap 41.
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Reviewed By: David C. Dugdale, III, MD, Professor of Medicine, Division of General Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Washington School of Medicine; and George F. Longstreth, MD, Department of Gastroenterology, Kaiser Permanente Medical Care Program, San Diego, California. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.
Copyright 2011 A.D.A.M., Inc.
