Question:hard
This spot radiograph is from a double-contrast esophagram. The image represents:
This spot radiograph is from a double-contrast esophagram. The image represents:
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Transient fine transverse mucosal folds linked to reflux.
Updated On: Jun 24, 2026
- Esophageal atresia
- Esophageal stenosis
- Feline esophagus
- Tracheoesophageal fistula
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The Correct Option is C
Solution and Explanation
Step 1: Read the barium study for its pattern. Across the esophageal lumen are many delicate transverse stripes, each only 1-2 mm thick, encircling the whole circumference like a herringbone. This specific banding names the diagnosis.
Step 2: Such fleeting transverse rings constitute feline esophagus, or esophageal shiver. They arise when the muscularis mucosae contracts and momentarily shortens the esophagus, pleating the mucosa into fine circular folds in the distal two-thirds of the thoracic esophagus.
Step 3: Crucially they are transient - seen just after reflux and absent during active swallowing - which links them tightly to gastroesophageal reflux. Atresia and tracheoesophageal fistula are neonatal congenital anomalies and a stenosis is a fixed stricture, none of which produce these transient fine bands. Hence feline esophagus.
\[\boxed{\text{Feline esophagus}}\]
Step 2: Such fleeting transverse rings constitute feline esophagus, or esophageal shiver. They arise when the muscularis mucosae contracts and momentarily shortens the esophagus, pleating the mucosa into fine circular folds in the distal two-thirds of the thoracic esophagus.
Step 3: Crucially they are transient - seen just after reflux and absent during active swallowing - which links them tightly to gastroesophageal reflux. Atresia and tracheoesophageal fistula are neonatal congenital anomalies and a stenosis is a fixed stricture, none of which produce these transient fine bands. Hence feline esophagus.
\[\boxed{\text{Feline esophagus}}\]
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