Work in progress: transverse striations of the esophagus: association with gastroesophageal reflux.

Transverse mucosal ridging of the esophagus may be demonstrated on double-contrast esophagrams as transverse striations. A case review of 44 patients who had transverse striations was performed to evaluate the significance of the striations with respect to gastroesophageal reflux. Gastroesophageal reflux was significantly more common among patients who had transverse striations than it was in the general population who had been referred for the barium meal. This does not imply that all patients with transverse striations or with reflux at fluoroscopy have esophagitis. However, recognition of transverse striations should prompt careful evaluation for reflux and associated complications in symptomatic patients.