Air esophagogram: a frequent observation in goiters

Air esophagograms have been described in normal individuals and in association with esophageal disease or respiratory distress. In a study of neck radiographs in 160 patients with goiter, air esophagograms were observed in 24 (15%). The continuous irritation of the enlarged thyroid on the trachea is thought to excite intermittent aerophagy, and accounts for the frequent demonstration of air within the esophagus.