Cricopharyngeal achalasia
Cricopharyngeal achalasia or dysphagia is a disorder characterized by failure of the pharyngoesophageal sphincter (upper esophageal sphincter) to relax during the first phase of swal- lowing.6,7 The etiology and pathogenesis of this disease are unknown.
The disease has been documented in a number of dog breeds.8,9 Affected animals have difficulty swallowing, characterized by multiple attempts to swallow and food falling from the mouth. Regurgitation can also be seen as well as nasopharyngeal reflux of ingesta, ptyalism, coughing, gagging, and weight loss. Most dogs show clinical signs from birth, but they may also occur spontaneously in older animals. Older animals often have concurrent acquired disorders such as myasthenia gravis, laryngeal paralysis, or esophageal stricture.9 Physical examination may reveal a poor body condition, but will likely be unremarkable unless concurrent disease is present. Diagnosis requires the use of contrast videofluoroscopy (Figure 3.2).6-9 Fluoroscopy shows multiple, unproductive attempts at swallowing. A bolus is formed, but does not pass into the esophagus despite numerous attempts. Eventually, small boluses may be passed into the esophagus.Most patients diagnosed with this disorder are treated with cricopharyngeal myectomy with relatively good success.7-9 Patients generally experience immediate relief after surgery. Aspiration pneumonia, if present, should be treated as necessary.
3.3.2
More on the topic Cricopharyngeal achalasia:
-
Veterinarian -