Candidiasis in the obstructed esophagus

Four cases of esophageal candidiasis complicating functional or mechanical obstruction are described. The causes of the obstruction included achalasia, scleroderma, and postoperative fundoplication. None of the commonly recognized conditions predisposing to esophageal candidiasis was present. The findings on barium study ranged from plaque-like filling defects to extensive nodularity and roughening of the mucosal surface, which must be distinguished from ingested debris. It is suggested that esophageal stasis of any cause can lead to candidiasis.