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Is the Schatzki ring a unique esophageal entity?
Michaela Müller1, Ines Gockel, Philip Hedwig
1Department of Gastroenterology, German Clinic for Diagnostics Wiesbaden, 65191 Wiesbaden, Germany. mueller.gastro@dkd-wiesbaden.de
World Journal of Gastroenterology
|July 8, 2011
Summary
Schatzki rings often coexist with other esophageal conditions, suggesting a multifactorial cause for these rings. Early diagnosis is crucial as symptoms can be misleading, leading to delayed identification.
Area of Science:
- Gastroenterology
- Esophageal Pathophysiology
- Diagnostic Endoscopy
Background:
- Schatzki rings (SRs) are a common finding in the esophagus, often associated with dysphagia.
- The exact etiology of SRs remains debated, with several theories proposed.
- Understanding associated conditions may elucidate the multifactorial nature of SRs.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the association between Schatzki rings and other esophageal disorders.
- To determine if these associations support existing etiological theories for Schatzki rings.
Main Methods:
- Prospective study of 167 patients with newly diagnosed symptomatic Schatzki rings (SRs) from 1987-2007.
- Data collection included structured interviews, endoscopic, and radiographic examinations.
- Assessment for additional morphological abnormalities and esophageal motility disorders.
Main Results:
- A high prevalence of associated esophageal conditions was observed in 167 patients (mean age 57.1 years).
- 97% had sliding hiatal hernia; 28.1% had erosive reflux esophagitis; 15.6% had esophageal webs.
- Other findings included eosinophilic esophagitis, diverticula, and motility disorders.
Conclusions:
- Schatzki rings (SRs) are frequently associated with other esophageal disorders.
- These associations support a multifactorial etiology for SRs.
- SRs can be overlooked despite characteristic symptoms.
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