title: Synopsis of investigations into proposed theories on the etiology of achalasia.
abstract: The current state of research into the etiology of achalasia only allows for speculation. To date, several studies have been performed investigating genetic, immune, and infectious disease mechanisms; however, none of these have been conclusive. Further research into this topic is warranted given the severity of the disease, and it may be possible that all of these mechanisms are involved in the pathophysiology of the disease.
authors.affiliation: University of Washington School of Medicine, Department of Surgery, Seattle, WA, USA.
authors.forename: R P
authors.initials: RP
authors.lastname: Petersen
authors.forename: A V
authors.initials: AV
authors.lastname: Martin
authors.forename: C A
authors.initials: CA
authors.lastname: Pellegrini
authors.forename: B K
authors.initials: BK
authors.lastname: Oelschlager
mesh_terms: D000309:Adrenal Insufficiency / Q000235:genetics; D004931:Esophageal Achalasia / Q000209:etiology* / Q000235:genetics / Q000276:immunology; D006801:Humans; D020641:Polymorphism, Single Nucleotide; D014777:Virus Diseases / Q000150:complications*