Multiple transverse folds in the gastric antrum.

Fine transverse folds of the esophagus are well described as a transient motor phenomenon seen in patients with or without gastroesophageal reflux. They appear to be due to contraction of the muscularis mucosa and are thought to have little, if any, significance. We have observed similar transverse folds in the gastric antrum during double-contrast upper gastrointestinal series in five patients. In contrast to the transient nature of the folds in the esophagus, these gastric folds were more persistent. They were seen in multiple spot images with the gastric antrum distended or partially collapsed and even during peristalsis. In follow-up studies, the folds were repeatedly demonstrated in two patients. Two patients had associated gastric polyps with histologic evidence of chronic gastritis; however, the antral mucosa appeared normal on endoscopy. The remaining three patients had no associated gastric disease. The pathophysiologic significance of these folds is yet to be determined; however, they appear to be clinically insignificant.