Upper GI and small bowel series

Alternative names:

barium swallow X-ray; GI series; upper GI series

Normal values:

The esophagus, stomach and small intestine are normal in size and contour.

What abnormal results mean:

• In the esophagus, abnormal results may mean:
  • esophageal cancer
  • esophageal stricture (benign)
  • hiatal hernia (a portion of the stomach protrudes through the esophageal opening)
  • diverticula (a pouch-like sac that protrudes from the walls of an organ)
  • ulcers (open sores)
  • achalasia (esophagus fails to relax)

• In the stomach, abnormal results may mean:
  • gastric cancer
  • gastric ulcer; benign
  • polyps (a tumor that is usually noncancerous that grows on the mucous membrane)
  • gastritis (inflammation of the stomach)
  • pyloric stenosis (a narrowing of the opening from the stomach)

• In the small intestines the test may reveal:
  • tumors
  • malabsorption syndrome (inadequate absorption of nutrients in the intestinal tract)
  • inflammation of the small intestines.

Additional conditions under which the test may be performed:

• alcoholic neuropathy
• annular pancreas
• CMV gastroenteritis/colitis
• cystic fibrosis
• duodenal ulcer
• gastroesophageal reflux disease
• gastroparesis
• intestinal obstruction
• lower esophageal ring (Schatzki's)
• ovarian cancer
• primary or idiopathic intestinal pseudo-obstruction