What are the differential diagnoses of achalasia?

What are the differential diagnoses of achalasia?

Differential diagnosis 1 achalasia: the distal segment of narrowing is <3.5 cm 2 central and peripheral neuropathy 3 scleroderma: gastro-esophageal junction (GEJ) will be open; less severe dilatation 4 esophageal malignancy or gastric carcinoma : commonly referred to as pseudoachalasia 5 esophageal stricture 6 Chagas disease

How is barium swallow used to diagnose achalasia?

A barium swallow study may be used to confirm esophagus dilatation, in addition to assessing for mucosal abnormalities. Patients with uncomplicated achalasia demonstrate a dilated, thin-walled esophagus filled with fluid/food debris.

Do you need esophageal motility test for achalasia?

Thus, “normal” findings on EGD or esophagram in patients suspected of having achalasia should prompt esophageal motility testing. However, in patients with classic endoscopic and/or esophagram findings, esophageal motility would be considered supportive to confirm the diagnosis.

What kind of motility disorder is achalasia?

Achalasia is a primary esophageal motility disorder, characterized by the absence of esophageal peristalsis and impaired relaxation of the lower esophageal sphincter (LES).

Can a Doberman Pinscher be diagnosed with DCM?

Unfortunately, instances of Doberman’s diagnosed with DCM seems to be increasing in recent years. To make the panic worse, the FDA has released a list of dog foods that have been linked to DCM in canines. So what does this all mean? Before you panic, let’s simplify all of this so the average owner (like you and me) can get a better grasp on things.

Who is more likely to be diagnosed with achalasia?

Achalasia affects males and females in equal numbers except in cases that appear to reflect an inherited form. In those cases, it appears that males are twice as likely as females to be diagnosed with this disorder. X-ray examination (radiology) is frequently useful in the diagnosis of achalasia.

Can a Doberman Pinscher have an enlarged heart?

There has been a lot of confusion, and even panic, surrounding dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM), also known as simply “an enlarged heart”, within the Doberman community lately. Unfortunately, instances of Doberman’s diagnosed with DCM seems to be increasing in recent years.

How is a manometry test used to diagnose achalasia?

Esophageal manometry. This test measures the rhythmic muscle contractions in your esophagus when you swallow, the coordination and force exerted by the esophagus muscles, and how well your lower esophageal sphincter relaxes or opens during a swallow. This test is the most helpful when determining which type of motility problem you might have.