“The myenteric plexus (of Auerbach) at the gastro-oesophageal junction (GOJ) degenerates, resulting in failure of GOJ relaxation. However, ...
“The myenteric plexus (of Auerbach) at the gastro-oesophageal junction (GOJ) degenerates, resulting in failure of GOJ relaxation. However, the whole oesophagus is abnormal. The GOJ only opens when pressure in the distal oesophagus exceeds that in the stomach. Causes are primary idiopathic, affects young patients 20-40) or secondary (e.g. tumour infiltration of the myenteric plexus). Malignancy occurs in about 5% of patients with primary achalasia.
BARIUM SWALLOW
• Starts with defective peristalsis and mild narrowing at GOJ.
• Then ‘bird’s beak’ at GOJ coupled with a dilated, aperistaltic oesophagus. Warm water provokes the GOJ to open.
• Food residue builds up in the oesophagus — risk of aspiration and Oesophageal squamous cell carcinoma
Achalasia. Barium swallow demonstrating a dilated oesophagus with a smooth stricture at the gastro-oesophageal junction with a ‘bird’s beak’ appearance.
- For Radiology Cases, Discussion join: Radiology Made Easy on Facebook
- Subscribe to our youtube channel for FRCR radiology case discussion
- Join our Telegram group: Radiology Made Easy
