Squamous Cell Carcinoma of the Esophagus in Untreated Achalasia: Two Case Reports
Published on: 2019-10-17
Abstract
ed basal tone of the lower esophageal sphincter and loss of peristalsis. The etiology of this degeneration is generally idiopathic [1, 2]. Secondary achalasia is less common but can be caused by inflammatory and infiltrative processes such as Chagas disease, sarcoidosis, and amyloidosis, among others [3-5]. Typical presentation is dysphagia to both solids and liquids, retrosternal fullness, or chest pain. Patients are often initially diagnosed with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and go untreated for many years [1]. Diagnosis includes an initial trial of a proton pump inhibitor for 4 weeks followed by upper endoscopy if symptoms persist. Subsequent esophageal manometry provides a definitive diagnosis [6]. There are many effective therapies for achalasi