Infantile achalasia

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Updated: Nov 7, 2026

Use of the Scissor-Type Knife During the Peroral Endoscopy Myotomy Procedure for the Treatment of Achalasia
06:42

Use of the Scissor-Type Knife During the Peroral Endoscopy Myotomy Procedure for the Treatment of Achalasia

Published on: March 3, 2023

R Starinsky, I Berlovitz, A J Mares

    Pediatric Radiology
    |January 1, 1984
    PubMed

    Insights

    Infantile achalasia, a rare condition, presents with symptoms like regurgitation and vomiting. Early diagnosis and surgical intervention can lead to symptom resolution and normal development in affected infants.

    Area of Science:

    • Pediatric Gastroenterology
    • Pediatric Surgery

    Background:

    • Achalasia is a rare esophageal motility disorder characterized by the absence of peristalsis and failure of the lower esophageal sphincter to relax.
    • Infantile achalasia is exceptionally uncommon, posing diagnostic challenges in neonates and infants.

    Observation:

    • A case report details a male infant presenting with achalasia symptoms at 4 months of age.
    • The infant underwent surgical intervention at 17 months of age.

    Findings:

    • Postoperative recovery was successful, with significant subsidence of achalasia symptoms.
    • The infant regained normal growth and developmental milestones following the surgery.

    Implications:

    • This case highlights the importance of considering infantile achalasia in the differential diagnosis of pediatric feeding difficulties.
    • Early recognition and appropriate management are crucial for preventing long-term complications and ensuring favorable outcomes in infants with achalasia.

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