Anginal pain of esophageal origin: clinical presentation, prevalence, and prognosis

Since 1768, when Heberden recognized a relationship of angina pectoris with eating, the close resemblance between angina-like pain of esophageal and cardiac origin has led to diagnostic confusion, with the role of the esophagus being, in turn, over- and underemphasized as a cause of symptoms. Although the classic features of angina do not distinguish the origin of the pain, certain other symptoms may identify esophageal pain. These include an inconsistent correlation of exercise with pain, periods of prolonged remission, provocation of pain by posture, association with other esophageal symptoms, relief by antacids, radiation of pain down the right arm and into the back, occurrence of pain at night, continuation of pain as a background ache, and relief from nitroglycerine delayed by 10 minutes or longer. However, while certain symptoms may alert the clinician to the possibility that angina-like pain is due to esophageal disease, no single symptom or combination of symptoms is infallible; there is no alternative to careful assessment. Esophageal disease accounts for the greatest number of patients with chest pain of unknown origin. The prevalence of angina-like esophageal pain in unselected emergency admissions with suspected myocardial infarction is 10-20%. Approximately one third or more of patients with angina and normal coronary arteries have esophageal problems. We have followed patients with angina-like esophageal pain for 9 years. Although prognosis remains good, confirming the original noncardiac diagnosis, greater than 80% of patients continue to have chest pain of undiminished intensity, and half are limited in their ability to work. Reassurance appeared to have one beneficial result: Patients were less likely to consult a physician after a positive diagnosis had been made.