A 51-Year-Old Man Comes to the Physician with Difficulty Swallowing

A 51-year-old man comes to the physician with difficulty swallowing solids but not liquids.  His medical history is significant for gastroesophageal reflux disease for the last 12 years.  He underwent endoscopy and was diagnosed with Barrett's esophagus 6 months ago.  His heartburn resolved 3 months after this diagnosis.  The patient's vital signs are within normal limits.  His body mass index is 38 kg/m².  Barium swallow now shows an area of symmetric, circumferential narrowing affecting the distal esophagus.  Which of the following best explains this finding?

A) Achalasia
B) Esophageal adenocarcinoma
C) Esophageal stricture
D) Hiatal hernia
E) Vascular ring

Correct Answer:

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