Megaesophagus

Compend Contin Educ Vet. 2012 Feb;34(2):E1.

Abstract

Megaesophagus is a disorder of the esophagus characterized by diffuse dilation and decreased peristalsis. It is classified into congenital and acquired forms. Gastrointestinal, endocrine, immune-mediated, neuromuscular, paraneoplastic, and toxic disorders have been associated with acquired megaesophagus. Common clinical signs of megaesophagus are regurgitation, weight loss, coughing, and halitosis. Most cases of megaesophagus can be diagnosed using thoracic radiography; however, diagnosing the underlying cause requires a thorough history and additional diagnostics. The treatment, management, and prognosis of megaesophagus vary greatly depending on the underlying cause.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Diagnosis, Differential
  • Dilatation, Pathologic / diagnosis
  • Dilatation, Pathologic / etiology
  • Dilatation, Pathologic / therapy
  • Dilatation, Pathologic / veterinary*
  • Dog Diseases / diagnosis*
  • Dog Diseases / etiology
  • Dog Diseases / therapy
  • Dogs
  • Esophageal Achalasia / diagnosis
  • Esophageal Achalasia / etiology
  • Esophageal Achalasia / therapy
  • Esophageal Achalasia / veterinary*
  • Peristalsis / physiology
  • Prognosis
  • Radiography, Thoracic / veterinary*