title: Contribution of ultrasonography in the diagnosis of achalasia.
abstract: We present a case of achalasia diagnosed with the aid of ultrasonography (US). After having examined the clinical-radiological characteristics of the disease, and after having noted the diagnostic possibilities of manometry and endoscopy, we emphasize the use of US to clearly show the thickening of the muscular wall and the dilatation of the distal esophagus. In those of pediatric age, particularly, US permits differential diagnosis with the esophageal leiomyoma, which is difficult to obtain with other techniques. We suggest, therefore, including US in the study of patients with stenosis of the third distal section of the esophagus.
authors.affiliation: Radiological Department, Bambino Gesù Pediatric Hospital, Rome, Italy.
authors.forename: G L
authors.initials: GL
authors.lastname: Bergami
authors.forename: R
authors.initials: R
authors.lastname: Fruhwirth
authors.forename: M
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Di Mario
authors.forename: S
authors.initials: S
authors.lastname: Fasanelli
mesh_terms: D002675:Child, Preschool; D004931:Esophageal Achalasia / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging*; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D014463:Ultrasonography