Achalasia–>Absence of relaxation.
Both liquid and solids dysphagia–>Barium swallow will show–>Bird peak–>Rx with Botulinum toxin (for pts who cannot tolerate more invasive procedures), or Balloon dilation=Pneumatic dilation (cost effective procedure that provides symptomatic relief).
CCB is another way of Rx. Secondary Achalasia may arise from Chaga’s disease. Achalasia is associated w/ increased risk of esophageal Carcinoma. Complication: Reflux of food–>aspiration Sx.
BDxT (best Dx test) is manometry showing failure of the LES to relax, as well as the absence of peristaltic waves in the upper esophagus. However endoscopy is required to ensure that there is no malignancy.
I am not a huge fan of the ABCs mnemonics. There are so many of them, so you can easily get confused. However, for Achalasia ABC seems to work fine. Let me know what you think and how to improve this mnemonic. Thanks!
