Cineradiography identifies esophageal candidiasis in progressive systemic sclerosis

Cineradiography of the esophagus showed signs of esophageal candidiasis in 11 out of 71 patients with progressive systemic sclerosis (PSS) - both in diffuse scleroderma and the CREST syndrome. Culture of esophageal brushings confirmed the presence of Candida albicans in eight of these 11 patients. Antimycotic treatment decreased the cineradiographic signs of candidiasis and the degree of dysphagia. Since impaired esophageal motility and treatment with immunosuppressive drugs may predispose to candida esophagitis, and since dysphagia will decrease after antimycotic treatment esophageal mycosis should always be sought in patients with PSS.