 Lower esophageal ring
Definition Alternative Names Causes, incidence, and risk factors Symptoms Signs and tests Treatment Expectations (prognosis) Complications References DefinitionA 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. Alternative NamesEsophagogastric ring; Schatzki's ring Causes, incidence, and risk factorsA 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: SymptomsFor 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. Signs and testsTests that show the lower esophageal ring include: TreatmentTreatment 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. Expectations (prognosis)Swallowing problems may return. Repeated treatments may be needed. ComplicationsCall for an appointment with your health care provider if you have swallowing problems. ReferencesLong 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.
Review Date: 11/11/2010
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.
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