Editorial: Assessing Esophageal Function in Achalasia: The Old and the New

Am J Gastroenterol. 2018 Feb;113(2):213-215. doi: 10.1038/ajg.2017.445.

Abstract

Achalasia is currently diagnosed according to the Chicago Classification v3.0 using high-resolution manometry and treatment focuses on disruption of the esophagogastric junction. A paper in this issue examines the utility of a timed barium esophagram with a 13 mm tablet challenge in differentiating achalasia from other diagnoses, finding 100% sensitivity. However, a large proportion of patients with non-achalasia dysphagia are also identified. Another paper in this issue proposes utilizing intraprocedure functional luminal imaging probe measurement during pneumatic dilation as a guide for upsizing dilations. This appears promising, but prospective validation is necessary before this becomes standard of care.

Publication types

  • Editorial
  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Comment

MeSH terms

  • Chicago
  • Dilatation
  • Esophageal Achalasia*
  • Humans
  • Manometry
  • Prospective Studies