The "foamy" esophagus: a radiographic sign of Candida esophagitis

AJR Am J Roentgenol. 2000 Apr;174(4):999-1002. doi: 10.2214/ajr.174.4.1740999.

Abstract

Objective: The purpose of this study was to describe the radiographic features of the "foamy" esophagus, a new sign of Candida esophagitis seen on double-contrast esophagography, in six patients.

Conclusion: The foamy esophagus was characterized by innumerable tiny (1-3 mm), round lucencies (bubbles) that intermingled with the barium suspension along the top of the barium column, producing a layer of foam. Candida esophagitis should be strongly suspected when a foamy esophagus is detected on double-contrast esophagography, particularly in patients with underlying esophageal involvement by scleroderma.

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Aged
  • Candidiasis / diagnostic imaging*
  • Esophagitis / diagnostic imaging*
  • Esophagitis / microbiology*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Radiography