Alterations in normal esophageal motility in patients with Chagas' disease

Eight adult patients with visceral Chagas' disease were studied twice within an interval of 64 months. In each case the esophagus was evaluated radiologically and manometrically. None of the patients had esophageal symptoms and no significant change in resting gastroesophageal sphincter pressure was observed during the study. However in 3 patients incomplete sphincteric relaxation was noted. Normal progressive contractions did not change. The importance of these findings are discussed.