Corkscrew sign (diffuse esophageal spasm)

Last revised by Mohammad Taghi Niknejad on 14 Jan 2024

A corkscrew esophagus, also known as a rosary bead esophagus, is a classic appearance of distal esophageal spasm on a barium swallow. It is quite a rare appearance, seen in less than 5% of cases of distal esophageal spasm. The finding is caused by multiple tertiary (non-propulsive) contractions interrupting the normal peristalsis.

ADVERTISEMENT: Supporters see fewer/no ads