ARRT Patient Care Practice Exam

Which of the following is an indication for a barium swallow study?

1. Gastroesophageal reflux disease

2. Cholecystitis

3. Appendicitis

4. Diverticulitis

The correct answer is: Gastroesophageal reflux disease

A barium swallow study is a diagnostic imaging test used primarily to evaluate the swallowing function and to detect abnormalities in the esophagus and stomach. It involves the patient ingesting a barium-containing liquid, which coats the lining of the upper gastrointestinal tract, allowing for clearer X-ray images. Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is a condition characterized by the backward flow of stomach contents into the esophagus, resulting in symptoms such as heartburn and regurgitation. A barium swallow study can reveal reflux patterns, assess the integrity of the esophagus, and identify any structural abnormalities that may contribute to the condition, such as ulcers or esophageal strictures. This makes a barium swallow an appropriate investigation for GERD. The other conditions listed, such as cholecystitis, appendicitis, and diverticulitis, primarily affect the gallbladder and lower gastrointestinal tract, respectively. These conditions are best evaluated using different imaging techniques, such as ultrasound or CT scans, rather than a barium swallow study, which focuses on the upper gastrointestinal tract. Therefore, the indication for a barium swallow study specifically aligns with the assessment of gastroesophageal reflux disease.