Dots, lines, contours, and ends: An image-based review of esophageal pathology

Esophageal pathologies encountered on fluoroscopic examination may pose a diagnostic challenge to the interpreting Radiologist. Understanding the varied imaging appearances of esophageal pathology requires a thorough understanding of barium esophagography. This article reviews the various fluoroscopic imaging findings of different esophageal pathologies by describing an approach to image interpretation centered on dots, lines, contours, and ends. By utilizing this approach, the Radiologist will be better positioned to reconcile seemingly disparate pathologies into a cogent and succinct differential diagnosis.