Diagnosing Esophageal Dysfunction in Immune Disorders

The American Gastroenterological Association (AGA) has released an expert review and clinical practice update focusing on esophageal dysfunction caused by immune-mediated and infectious diseases. “Many different disorders can lead to esophageal dysfunction, which is characterized by symptoms including dysphagia, odynophagia, chest pain and heartburn. These symptoms can be caused either by immune or infectious conditions … Read more

Best Practices When Using POEM to Treat Achalasia

The American Gastroenterological Association (AGA) has released a clinical practice update synthesizing current available evidence and expert opinion on peroral endoscopic myotomy (POEM) to treat achalasia and other esophageal motility disorders. “Any patient suspected to have achalasia, or difficulty swallowing for that matter, should undergo a comprehensive diagnostic workup, and that should include clinical history, … Read more

Candida Associated With Esophageal Cancer Risk in Achalasia

TOPLINE: Esophageal Candida infection is linked to an 8.2-fold increased risk for esophageal cancer in patients with achalasia, according to results of a retrospective cohort study. Older age at diagnosis and male sex were also associated with an increased risk. METHODOLOGY: Researchers conducted a study in of 234 patients with achalasia between January 1980 and … Read more