A Schatzki ring is typically located where?

• A. Distal esophagus near the gastroesophageal junction
• B. Proximal esophagus near the upper esophageal sphincter
• C. Mid-esophagus
• D. Carina region

Answer: (A)

Schatzki ring sits as a mucosal narrowing in the distal esophagus, just above the gastroesophageal junction. This location explains why swallowing becomes troublesome for solid foods, especially larger bites, while liquids may pass more easily. It’s commonly linked with reflux disease or a hiatal hernia, which can contribute to ring formation over time. If the narrowing were higher up near the upper esophageal sphincter, in the mid-esophagus, or at the carina (airway), you’d be dealing with a different condition, and those sites do not account for the typical symptoms of a Schatzki ring. Diagnosis is usually by endoscopy or a contrast study, and treatment often involves dilating the narrowed segment to restore normal passage for solids.