Schatzki ring

Editor-In-Chief: Prab R Tumpati, MD
Obesity, Sleep & Internal medicine
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Schatzki ring
Schatzki ring as seen on a barium swallow X-ray
Synonyms	Schatzki–Gary ring
Pronounce	N/A
Specialty	N/A
Symptoms	Dysphagia, chest pain
Complications	Esophageal obstruction
Onset	Usually in adults
Duration	Chronic
Types	N/A
Causes	Unknown, possibly related to gastroesophageal reflux disease
Risks	Hiatal hernia, GERD
Diagnosis	Barium swallow, endoscopy
Differential diagnosis	Esophageal stricture, esophageal web
Prevention	N/A
Treatment	Esophageal dilation, proton pump inhibitors
Medication	N/A
Prognosis	N/A
Frequency	Common in adults over 50
Deaths	N/A

A Schatzki ring, also known as a Schatzki–Gary ring, is an anatomical abnormality characterized by a narrowing of the lower esophagus, often leading to difficulty swallowing (dysphagia).

Introduction

Schatzki rings are constrictions caused by a ring of mucosal or muscular tissue in the esophagus. These rings can restrict food passage, leading to swallowing difficulties.

Types of Schatzki Rings

Schatzki rings are classified into two types based on their location:

• A rings: Located above the junction of the esophagus and stomach.
• B rings: Found at the squamocolumnar junction in the lower esophagus.

Causes

The exact cause of Schatzki rings is not fully understood, but they are believed to be associated with chronic gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and other esophageal conditions.

Symptoms

Symptoms of a Schatzki ring typically include:

• Difficulty swallowing (dysphagia), especially with solid foods
• Sensation of food being stuck in the chest
• Occasional chest pain or discomfort

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of a Schatzki ring often involves:

• Barium swallow study, an X-ray test that visualizes the esophagus
• Endoscopy to directly view the esophagus and identify the ring

Treatment

Treatment for Schatzki rings may include:

• Dietary modifications, such as eating softer foods or cutting food into smaller pieces
• Esophageal dilation, a procedure to stretch and widen the narrowed area
• Management of underlying conditions like GERD

Complications

If left untreated, Schatzki rings can lead to complications such as:

• Severe dysphagia
• Risk of food impaction in the esophagus