Pseudo-erosive esophagitis and gastritis

Barium precipitates can result in a radiographic appearance in the esophagus and stomach simulating erosive esophagitis and gastritis. The diagnosis requires endoscopic confirmation of the erosions. Visual confirmation is necessary in view of a recent report pathologically documenting gastritis in 36 percent of a group of "healthy" volunteers who had no evidence of ulcerations or gastro-intestinal symptoms.