| achalasia | <gastroenterology> Constriction of the lower portion of the food pipe (oesophagus) due to inability of the sphincter muscles to relax. Symptoms include difficulty swallowing, chest pain, vomiting and heartburn. Treatment includes oesophageal dilation using special instruments or medications (for example nitroglycerin, calcium channel blockers). (27 Sep 1997) |
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| pseudo-achalasia | <radiology> Carcinoma of distal oesophagus / GE junction, M more than F, onset 40-60 years of age, beak above hiatus, gastric cardiac mass, recommend biopsy! Differential diagnosis: achalasia (females, younger) (12 Dec 1998) |
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| oesophageal achalasia | Constriction of the lower portion of the food pipe (oesophagus) due to inability of the muscles to relax. Symptoms include difficulty swallowing, chest pain, vomiting and heartburn. Treatment includes oesophageal dilation using special instruments or medications (for example nitroglycerin, calcium channel blockers). (27 Sep 1997) |