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Achalasia cardia in infants: report of two cases

Souvik Chatterjee1, Vishal Gajbhiye, Avidip De

  • 1Department of Paediatric Surgery, Medical College and Hospital, Kolkata, West Bengal, India.

The Journal of IMA
|July 19, 2013
PubMed

Insights

Achalasia cardia, a rare infant neuromuscular disorder, involves esophageal aperistalsis and LES dysfunction. Two infant cases underwent successful Heller

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Gastroenterology
  • Esophageal Motility Disorders
  • Neuromuscular Diseases

Background:

  • Achalasia cardia is a rare neuromuscular disorder affecting the esophagus and lower esophageal sphincter (LES).
  • Typically diagnosed in adults aged 30-60, it is exceptionally uncommon in infants.
  • Characterized by esophageal aperistalsis and impaired LES relaxation.

Observation:

  • This report details two infant cases diagnosed with achalasia cardia.
  • The infants presented with symptoms indicative of this rare condition.

Findings:

  • Both infant cases were successfully treated with open Heller's esophagocardiomyotomy.
  • An anti-reflux procedure was performed concurrently with the myotomy.

Implications:

  • This study highlights the possibility of achalasia cardia in infants, despite its rarity.
  • Surgical intervention, including Heller's myotomy, can be effective in treating pediatric achalasia.
  • Early diagnosis and surgical management are crucial for improving outcomes in affected infants.

Keywords:
Achalasia cardiaInfant

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