Aperistalsis and esophagitis

Aperistalsis of the esophagus was demonstrated in six patients with esophagitis. This was observed in reflux, caustic, and infectious esophagitis, and has occurred both as a transient phenomenon with no further sequelae, and as the initial manifestation of involvement in patients who subsequently suffered stricture. Based on biopsy and autopsy specimens in two cases, a possible mechanism of aperistalsis related to the damage to neurons in Auerbach's plexus is postulated. The presence of aperistalsis has been the first significant clue to esophageal inflammation in several cases.