- The azygoesophageal line is an
- anatomical landmark representing
the- interface between the azygos vein and the esophagus,
- typically located at the T5 to T6 vertebral levels.
- It serves as a
- critical
reference point when assessing the posterior mediastinum and - identifying surrounding structures.
- critical
- The azygos vein, which runs
along the right side of the thoracic spine- drains blood from the thoracic wall and upper lumbar regions into the superior vena cava, while
- the esophagus lies
- anterior to the aorta and posterior to the
trachea.
- anterior to the aorta and posterior to the
- Abnormalities in the azygo-esophageal line can indicate
pathological conditions such as- mediastinal masses (tumors or
lymphadenopathy), - esophageal varices,
- strictures, or anomalies of the azygos vein.
- mediastinal masses (tumors or
- anatomical landmark representing
![](https://thecommonvein.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/32682c-azygoesophageal-line.jpg)
TheCommonVein.net
Ashley Davidoff MD 32682c
![](https://thecommonvein.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/32682cL-azygoesophageal-line.jpg)
Note the right border of the line is formed by the ascending azygous vein (red arrowheads) and the azygous vein appears as a rounded density above the right main stem bronchus (blue arrowhead) just before it enters the upstream SVC. A liner collection of air is noted in the esophagus (pink arrowheads).
TheCommonVein.net Ashley Davidoff MD 32682cL