Achalasia of the Esophagus Quiz

Questions and Answers

Uniform dilatation of the esophagus with an air–fluid level present

Instrumentation of the esophagus during endoscopy

Absence of peristalsis in the body of the esophagus

Tapered “beak” deformity at the lower esophagus Signup and view all the answers

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) Signup and view all the answers

To visualize the lining of the esophagus Signup and view all the answers

To relax the patient and make them sleepy Signup and view all the answers

Circular rings, linear furrows, whitish papules Signup and view all the answers

Ulceration, erosions, longitudinal fold thickening Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Achalasia of the Esophagus and Related Conditions

Achalasia of the esophagus is characterized by absence of peristalsis and LES spasm, resulting in failure of esophageal emptying.
Radiographic signs of achalasia include uniform esophageal dilatation, tapered "beak" deformity at the LES, esophagitis findings, increased incidence of epiphrenic diverticula, and esophageal carcinoma.
Esophageal perforation is often caused by esophageal instrumentation during procedures such as endoscopy, dilation of esophageal stricture, foreign body removal, or esophageal endoprosthesis application.
Esophagitis, commonly caused by gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), is a prevalent condition with various causes.
Upper endoscopy, also known as esophagus-gastric-duodenoscopy (EGD), allows visualization of the esophageal lining using a flexible endoscope while the patient is sedated.
Typical endoscopic findings of esophagitis include circular rings, linear furrows, whitish papules, and strictures.
Biopsy involves the removal of a small esophageal tissue sample for microscopic examination.
Barium X-ray imaging captures esophageal conditions after the patient ingests a barium solution, revealing ulceration, erosions, longitudinal fold thickening, and peptic stricture formation in moderate to severe reflux esophagitis.