Achalasia: Comprehensive Clinical Review with Evidence-Based Management Strategies
Pathophysiology & Diagnostic Criteria Achalasia is a primary esophageal motility disorder rooted in neurodegenerative loss of inhibitory neurons (primarily nitric oxide– and VIP-producing) in the myenteric plexus of the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) and body. This results in: Key pathophysiological insight: The neurodegeneration is focal to the esophagus in classic achalasia, distinguishing it from pseudoachalasia…
