Describe two ways of assessing the esophagus radiographically and the best applications for each modality.

An esophagogram (barium swallow) is optimal for evaluating mucosal disease primary neoplasia, and symptoms of dysphagia
A CT scan evaluates the surrounding mediastinum for adenopathy along with the esophagus. It is best used when structures adjacent to the esophagus (e.g., the aorta) must be evaluated for invasion.