Achalasia Cardia Pathophysiology

A set of flashcards covering key concepts related to Achalasia Cardia pathophysiology, clinical presentation, diagnosis, and treatment options.

What is Achalasia Cardia?

A motility disorder characterized by a dilated esophagus with a tapering distal end (bird-beak appearance).

What are the clinical symptoms of Achalasia?

Gradual, fluctuating dysphagia to both solids and liquids, regurgitation, and chest discomfort.

Is there any association between Achalasia and smoking or alcohol?

No, there is no association with smoking or alcohol.

What is the initial test for diagnosing Achalasia?

Barium swallow, which shows the bird-beak appearance and dilated esophagus.

What is the confirmatory test for Achalasia?

Esophageal manometry.

Why is endoscopy performed in cases of Achalasia?

To exclude structural lesions; biopsy is not diagnostic for Achalasia.

What is the first-line treatment for Achalasia?

Pneumatic dilation.

What is the treatment if pneumatic dilation is not suitable or has failed?

Botulinum toxin injection to the lower esophageal sphincter (LES).

What medications are used for elderly or comorbid patients with Achalasia?

Medications like nifedipine.

What is the definitive long-term treatment for Achalasia?

Surgical myotomy, which has the best long-term efficacy.

How is Achalasia differentiated from esophageal cancer?

Cancer presents rapidly with solid-only dysphagia, while Achalasia presents gradually with simultaneous solids/liquids.

What does the bird-beak appearance in a barium swallow indicate?

It indicates a narrowing of the lower esophagus typically seen in Achalasia.

What is the role of biopsy in Achalasia diagnosis?

Biopsy is not diagnostic for Achalasia but is used to exclude other conditions.

How does achalasia affect swallowing?

It causes gradual difficulty in swallowing both solids and liquids.

What is the typical onset of dysphagia in Achalasia?

Dysphagia is gradual and fluctuating from the outset.

What are common misconceptions about Achalasia?

That it is associated with smoking or alcohol, which it is not.

What is a potential complication of untreated Achalasia?

Increased risk of esophageal cancer due to chronic irritation.

What is meant by 'motility disorder'?

A condition affecting the movement or function of the esophagus.

What other conditions may be ruled out during endoscopy?

Structural lesions such as strictures or malignancies.

How is Achalasia commonly treated in younger patients?

Pneumatic dilation or surgical myotomy.

What is the significance of chest discomfort in Achalasia?

It is a common symptom along with dysphagia and regurgitation.

What type of patients may benefit from nifedipine?

Elderly patients or those with comorbid conditions.

What is the best long-term outcome treatment for Achalasia?

Surgical myotomy.

Why is the term 'bird-beak' used to describe Achalasia?

It describes the distinctive tapering of the esophagus seen on imaging.

Can Achalasia cause regurgitation?

Yes, regurgitation is a symptom of Achalasia.

What differentiates slow and fast onset dysphagia in esophageal disorders?

Slow onset indicates conditions like Achalasia, while fast onset is suggestive of malignancy.

What does esophageal manometry measure?

It measures the pressure and patterns of muscle contractions in the esophagus.

When was the information about Achalasia Cardia last updated?

31 December 2025.

How do symptoms of Achalasia correlate with disease progression?

Symptoms are more gradual and persistent compared to other conditions.

What is essential in the initial evaluation of a patient suspected of having Achalasia?

A thorough clinical history and appropriate imaging studies.