achalasia Flashcards
1
Q
define achalasia
A
oesophageal Peristalsis and failure of LOS to relax , impairs Oesophageal emptying
2
Q
what is the pathophysiology of achalaisa ?
A
-Idiopathic
-Very rare - especially in children
1. ↓ in ganglionic cells in nerve plexus of oesophageal wall
2. Degeneration in the vagus nerve
3. Failure of smooth muscle relaxation
3
Q
what are the symptoms of achalasia?
A
-Non progressive dysphagia
- Chesty substernal pain
· Food regurgitation
· Aspiration Pneumonia
4
Q
what are the complications associated with achalasia
A
May increase risk of oesophageal squamous cell lung cancer
5
Q
how is achalasia diagnosed?
A
- Barium Swallow
↳ bird beak - oesophageal manometry
-> measure pressure across LOS
6
Q
how is achalasia treated?
A
- no cure
- surgery ( balloon)
- drugs - nitrate, nifedipine
