A 56-year-old retired schoolteacher presents with progressive dysphagia, substernal pain with eating, and weight loss over the course of 1 year. He has never traveled outside the United States. Barium esophagography reveals esophageal dilation, lack of esophageal peristalsis, and a 'bird's beak' tapering of the distal esophagus. Which of the following is a likely cause of this patient's condition?
A) Achalasia
B) Zenker's diverticulum
C) Barrett's esophagus
D) Chagas disease
E) Increased pressure of the upper esophageal sphincter

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Achalasia is characterized by esophageal dilation, lack of esophageal peristalsis, and a 'bird's beak' appearance of the distal esophagus on imaging, matching the patient's symptoms and diagnostic findings.

A 56-Year-Old Retired Schoolteacher Presents with Progressive Dysphagia, Substernal Pain