16 Questions
What is the predominant presenting symptom of reflux esophagitis?
Burning chest pain (heartburn)
What can result from persistent or repetitive acid exposure to the esophageal mucosa?
Mucosal ulceration
Which symptom is often worse at night in patients with reflux esophagitis?
Burning chest pain (heartburn)
Without treatment, what can achalasia patients eventually experience?
Esophageal rupture
What is a consequence of achalasia imposing a high risk of aspiration pneumonia?
Esophageal rupture
What is the primary cause of achalasia?
Defective innervation of smooth muscle in the esophageal body and lower esophageal sphincter
In achalasia, what happens to the lower esophageal sphincter tone?
It becomes even more tightly contracted and does not relax properly
What is the role of botulinum toxin in treating achalasia?
Diminishes the excitatory pathways
What is a common manifestation of lower esophageal sphincter dysfunction over time?
Tremendous enlargement of the esophagus
Which nervous system pathway is defective in achalasia?
Esophageal enteric nervous system
What is a characteristic feature of the lower esophageal sphincter tone in achalasia compared to normal?
Even more tightly contracted and does not relax properly
Which of the following symptoms is commonly associated with esophageal achalasia?
Dysphagia
What is the major motor function abnormality seen in patients with esophageal achalasia?
Increased lower esophageal sphincter tone
What is the most likely cause of esophageal achalasia?
Degeneration of the myenteric plexus
Which of the following conditions results from inappropriate lower esophageal sphincter relaxation?
Reflux esophagitis
Which parasite can cause esophageal involvement similar to esophageal achalasia?
Trypanosoma cruzi
Learn about the pathology and pathogenesis of esophageal achalasia, which is characterized by defective innervation of esophageal smooth muscle. Discover how lower esophageal sphincter tone is affected and understand the similarities with other disorders.
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