Alternative Names
Esophagogastric ring; Schatzki’s ring
Definition of Lower esophageal 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, incidence, and risk factors
A lower esophageal ring is a birth defect of the esophagus that occurs in 4% of people. It causes narrowing of the lower esophagus.
Symptoms
For most people, lower esophageal ring does not cause symptoms.
Signs and tests
Tests that show the lower esophageal ring include:
Treatment
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.
Expectations (prognosis)
Swallowing problems may return. Repeated treatments may be needed.
Review
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. – 11/11/2010
