Achalasia
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Introduction
Achalasia is an esophageal motility disorder caused by an absence of esophageal perastalsis and an inability of the lower esophageal sphincter to relax dueing swallow.
The Case of...
Causes and Risk Factors
Incidence is 1:100,000
Pathophysiology
Achalasia is caused by an imbalance of excitatory and inhibitory neural signaling, often caused by an absence of inhibitory ganglion cells.
Signs and Symptoms
- history
- physical exam
History
Symptoms onclude
- dysphagia
- regurgitation
- halatosis
- chest pain
- acid reflux
- weight loss
Physical Exam
Investigations
- lab investigations
- diagnostic imaging
Lab Investigations
Diagnostic Imaging
Barium swallow often reveals a dilated esophagus with a tapered narrowing (bird's beak) at the GE junction.
Differential Diagnosis
The differential includes:
- gastric carcinoma
- esophageal carcinoma
- Chagas disease
Treatments
Consequences and Course
The Case of...
Additional Resources
Topic Development
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