What endoscopic appearance is typical for a Schatzki ring?

• A. Distal esophagus near the gastroesophageal junction
• B. Proximal esophagus near the upper esophageal sphincter
• C. Thin circumferential mucosal ring at the distal esophagus near the gastroesophageal junction
• D. Mid-esophagus

Answer: (C)

Schatzki ring appears as a thin, circumferential mucosal ring in the distal esophagus, right above the gastroesophageal junction. On endoscopy, you’ll see a narrow, circular band encircling the lumen in that distal region. This location and appearance explain why it causes intermittent solid-food dysphagia—the ring narrows the outlet of the esophagus just where it meets the stomach. It’s not located in the proximal esophagus near the upper esophageal sphincter or in the mid-esophagus, which helps distinguish it from other problems. The defining endoscopic feature is a slim mucosal ring at the distal esophagus near the GE junction.