CT of the esophagus: I. Normal appearance

The thoracic esophagus is easily demonstrable throughout its entire length on thoracic computed tomography (CT). The soft tissue planes separating the esophagus from its adjacent mediastinal structures are normally distinct. Blurring or distortion of these tissue interfaces is a reliable indicator of disease. The normal CT anatomy of the esophagus and mediastinal relationships are described. Air in the esophagus is considered a normal finding.