ABSTRACT
References 204
Achalasia of the esophagus is a neuromuscular (1-7) disorder in which esophageal
dilation and hypertrophy occur without organic stenosis. It is characterized by an increased
resting pressure of the lower esophageal sphincter (LES), failure of complete relaxation of
the LES in response to swallowing, and absence of normal esophageal peristalsis. The
incidence of achalasia is one in 10,000 people (8,9). It is a relatively uncommon
problem in children, with those under 15 years of age comprising ,5% of the symptomatic cases (10-12). Presenting symptoms include regurgitation of food, dysphagia,
and failure to thrive. Respiratory difficulties may also be present and are often the
result of chronic aspiration.
