[Inlet patch]
Inlet patch (= heterotopic gastric mucosa) is located at just below the upper esophageal sphincter. It is usually round, flat or slightly depressed, hyperemic, columnar mucosa. Sometimes there are two inlet patches at the same level ("kissing"). Ulcer or cancer may develop from the inlet patch, but they are extremely rare. Biopsy from the inlet patch is very difficult for doctors and patients alike.
Recommendataion: If there is no specific findings like ulcer or nodule, you don't need to take biopsies from the inlet patch.
@ Related article: from EndoTODAY-20110606 to EndoTODAY-20110614
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