Achalasia
Presentation:
Dysphagia and recurrent chest infection.
Patient Data:
Chest x-ray is largely unremarkable. Minor patchy opacities in the left base are noted. A small gastric air bubble is visible.
Upper GI study reveals uniform dilatation of the esophagus to the level of the gastroesophageal junction, where fixed narrowing is noted (bird peak sign or rat-tail sign). Repeated observation by flouroscopy confirmed failure of relaxation of the lower esophageal sphincter and prolonged retention of barium in the esophagus.
CT scan of the abdomen showed uniform dilatation of esophagus with air-fluid level. Pulmonic infiltrates in the upper segment of the right lower lobe likely due to aspiration.
Case Discussion:
This case illustrates typical features of achalasia, complicated by aspiration pneumonitis, as relatively common complication.
Related articles
Details successfully updated.
Unable to process the form. Check for errors and try again.
