The azygo-esophageal recess refers to a space in the posterior
mediastinum, located between the esophagus and the azygos vein.
This anatomical region is important in radiology because it can be
affected by conditions such as lymphadenopathy, masses, or
esophageal and vascular diseases. The recess normally appears as
a smooth contour on imaging studies like CT scans or MRIs, and any
deviation or displacement of the azygoesophageal recess can
suggest the presence of a pathology such as a tumor, pleural
effusion, or other mediastinal abnormalities

Azygo-esophageal Recess
CT scan at the level of the carina shows the azygo-esophageal recess (outlined in teal)
Ashley Davidoff MD
TheCommonVein.net
38803c
Azygo-esophageal Recess
CT scan at the level of the carina shows the azygo-esophageal recess (outlined in teal) abutting the esophagus (outlined in pink)
Ashley Davidoff MD
TheCommonVein.net
38803cL