What can a Barium swallow detect?

A Barium swallow is a diagnostic imaging test that primarily visualizes the esophagus and upper gastrointestinal tract. It involves the patient ingesting a barium sulfate solution, which coats the lining of the esophagus and stomach, making it visible on X-rays. This procedure is particularly effective in detecting abnormalities related to the swallowing process.

The correct choice reflects the test's ability to identify gastric ulcers, tumors, and strictures of the sphincters. These conditions can significantly impact how food and liquids pass through the esophagus and into the stomach, making the Barium swallow a valuable tool in diagnosing these issues. For instance, gastric ulcers can appear as irregularities in the lining of the stomach, while tumors may create noticeable masses or changes in the normal shape of the esophagus.

Other options do not pertain directly to the areas evaluated by a Barium swallow. Liver masses would typically be assessed through imaging techniques aimed at the liver, such as ultrasound or CT scans. Diverticulitis involves the colon and requires different imaging methods for diagnosis. Cholelithiasis, or gallstones, is associated with the gallbladder and would not be visible in an upper GI series. Therefore, the focus of a Barium swallow on the esophagus and