Achalasia
Motor disorder of the esophagus in which peristalsis is reduced along the distal two thirds of the esophagus. It is evident at the esophagogastric sphincter because of its inability to relax during swallowing. The thoracic esophagus may also lose its normal peristaltic activity and become dilated.
Barrett Esophagus
Replacement of the normal squamous epithelium with columnar lined epithelium ulcer tissue in the mid to lower esophagus. This replacement may produce a stricture in the distal esophagus.
Adenocarcinoma
Advanced symptoms include dysphagia, localized pain during meals, and bleeding.
Dysphagia
Difficulty swallowing. It may be due to a congenital or acquired condition, a trapped bolus of food, paralysis of the pharyngeal or esophageal muscles or inflammation. Narrowing or an enlarged, flaccid appearance of the esophagus may be seen during the esophagography depending on the cause of the dysphagia.
Esophageal Varices
Characterized by dilation of the veins in the wall of the distal esophagus. This condition is often seen with acute liver disease, such as cirrhosis secondary to increased portal hypertension. With restriction in venous flow through the liver, the coronary veins in the distal esophagus become dilated, tortuous and engorged with blood.
Bezoar
A mass of undigested material that becomes trapped in the stomach. This mass usually is made up of hair, certain vegetable fibers or wood products. The material builds up over time and may form an obstruction in the stomach.
Diverticula
Pouchlike herniations of a portion of the mucosal wall. They can occur in the stomach or small intestine. Gastric diverticula are generally about 1/2 inch but may be as large as 3 inches. in diameter.
Gastritis
An inflammation of the lining or mucosa of the stomach. Gastritis may develop in response to various physiologic and environmental conditions.