title: Esophageal dysphagia.
abstract: This paper is a review of esophageal anatomy, physiology and pathophysiology. The diagnosis and therapy of benign and malignant esophageal strictures are discussed including the specifics of esophageal dilation and tumor ablation procedures. The diagnosis and therapy of esophagitis in the immunocompromised (HIV, chemotherapy, transplant recipient) host is discussed. The pathophysiology and treatment of achalasia and esophageal spasm are reviewed. Finally, current concepts of the pathophysiology and therapy of gastroesophageal reflux disease. Emphasis is placed on the dual sphincter theory of gastroesophageal junction competence and the need for maintenance anti-secretory therapy.
authors.affiliation: Department of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, Illinois.
authors.forename: P J
authors.initials: PJ
authors.lastname: Kahrilas
authors.forename: G A
authors.initials: GA
authors.lastname: Ergun
mesh_terms: D003680:Deglutition Disorders / Q000209:etiology*; D004931:Esophageal Achalasia / Q000150:complications; D004935:Esophageal Diseases / Q000150:complications* / Q000503:physiopathology; D004938:Esophageal Neoplasms / Q000150:complications; D015155:Esophageal Spasm, Diffuse / Q000150:complications; D004940:Esophageal Stenosis / Q000150:complications; D004941:Esophagitis / Q000150:complications; D004947:Esophagus / Q000033:anatomy & histology / Q000294:innervation / Q000502:physiology; D005764:Gastroesophageal Reflux / Q000150:complications / Q000503:physiopathology; D006801:Humans; D009197:Myenteric Plexus / Q000502:physiology; D010528:Peristalsis; D014630:Vagus Nerve / Q000502:physiology