Multiple transverse folds in the gastric antrum

Area of Science:

• Gastroenterology
• Radiology
• Digestive System Imaging

Background:

• Fine transverse folds in the esophagus are recognized as transient motor phenomena.
• These esophageal folds are attributed to muscularis mucosa contraction and generally considered insignificant.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe the occurrence and characteristics of transverse folds observed in the gastric antrum.
• To compare these gastric folds with the well-documented esophageal transverse folds.

Main Methods:

• Observation of five patients during double-contrast upper gastrointestinal series.
• Analysis of spot images showing gastric antral folds in various states of distension and during peristalsis.
• Review of follow-up studies for persistent findings.

Main Results:

• Persistent transverse folds were observed in the gastric antrum in five patients.
• Unlike esophageal folds, these gastric folds were persistent across multiple images and conditions.
• Two patients had associated gastric polyps and chronic gastritis; three had no other gastric disease.
• Antral mucosa appeared normal on endoscopy in patients with polyps.

Conclusions:

• Transverse folds in the gastric antrum are a distinct finding from esophageal folds.
• These gastric folds demonstrate persistence and are observed in patients with and without associated gastric pathology.
• The pathophysiologic significance remains undetermined but appears clinically insignificant.