The possible correlation between the chronic esophageal achalasia and periodontal disease - a pilot study

Achalasia is a very rare disease characterized by the lack of motor coordination in various phases of contraction-relaxation of esophageal muscles. The aim of the study is to determine the correlation between esophageal achalasia and oral diseases.

Thirteen esophageal achalasia patients were assessed for the presence of any potential oral symptoms through a questionnaire. 5 volunteered to be included in the study. The oral health status of these 5 patients was assessed by a clinical oral examination. The oral health status of the included cases was compared to the oral health status data from a published observational study on healthy individuals belonging to the same (Italian) population.

Our results show that the number of periodontal pockets with Probing Pocket Dept > 4 mm is significantly increased, compared to the average of the Italian population; the Bleeding On Probing (BOP) is not related to the Plaque Control Record (PCR); so we can say that the value of periodontal index is not correlated with the value of oral hygiene index.

Considering the limitations of a research based on small numbers, it nevertheless seems advisable to assert that there is a correlation between esophageal achalasia and periodontal disease.