The purpose of an upper GI series is to detect which of the following?

The upper GI series is a specific imaging technique used to assess the upper portion of the gastrointestinal tract, which includes the esophagus, stomach, and duodenum. This series typically involves the use of a contrast material, such as barium, which helps to enhance visibility on X-ray images.

Detecting ulcerations is one of the primary purposes of an upper GI series. Ulcers can develop in the lining of the stomach or the duodenum, and the series can clearly indicate the presence of these lesions. The contrast material allows the physician to visualize irregularities or disruptions in the lining that might be indicative of an ulcer.

In terms of the other options, while polyps and inflammation can sometimes be assessed through an upper GI series, they are not the primary focus. Polyps are typically evaluated during endoscopy, and inflammation may also require a different diagnostic approach, possibly with other imaging modalities or direct visualization techniques. Diverticula are generally associated with the lower gastrointestinal tract, particularly the colon, making them less relevant in the context of an upper GI series.