American Journal of Roentgenology, Vol 134, Issue 6, 1137-1140
Copyright © 1980 by American Roentgen Ray Society
Acid corrosive esophagitis: radiographic findings
CA Muhletaler,
AJ Gerlock Jr,
L de Soto,
and
SA Halter
Thirty-nine esophagograms of 24 patients after ingestion of muriatic acid (27% HCI) in suicide attempts were reviewed. All esophagograms were obtained in the acute, subacute, and chronic phases. In the acute and subacute phases, the radiographic findings consisted of mucosal edema, submucosal edema or hemorrhage, ulcerations, sloughing of the mucosa, atony, and dilatation. Strictures of the esophagus were present in the chronic phase. These radiographic findings were not different from those found in alkaline corrosive esophagitis. The severity of the corrosive esophagitis is considered related to the concentration, amount, viscosity, and duration of contact between the caustic agent and the esophageal mucosa.