Esophageal Spasms

Diffuse esophageal spasm (DES) is a condition in which uncoordinated contractions of the esophagus occur. It is thought to result from motility disorders of the esophagus. These spasms do not propel food effectively to the stomach. It can cause dysphagia, regurgitation and chest pain.

Symptoms: Most of the people have this condition have chest pain that may spread outward to the arms, back, neck, or jaw. This pain can feel similar to a heart attack.

Diagnosis: The diagnosis of EoE is typically made on the combination of symptoms and findings on diagnostic testing. Endoscopically, ridges, furrows, or rings may be seen in the oesophageal wall. Radiologically, the term "ringed esophagus" has been used for the appearance of eosinophilic esophagitis on barium swallow studies to contrast with the appearance of transient transverse folds sometimes seen with esophageal reflux.

Treament: Other anti-inflammatory agents have also been trialled, including leukotriene antagonists such as montelukast, anti-interleukins such as the anti-IL-5 monoclonal antibody mepolizumab, and antihistamines such as loratadine.