Gastroesophageal reflux disease progressing to achalasia.

Two achalasia patients with former complaints of heartburn were examined. Antisecretory drugs were used by the patients when dysphagia occurred. Barium X-ray and esophageal manometry were performed and achalasia was diagnosed in both patients. Twenty-four-hour pH-metry showed significant and long-lasting acid reflux during supine position. Prolonged reflux episodes can be explained not only by the swallow-unrelated transient relaxation of lower esophageal sphincter (LES) and mechanical damage of the esophageal body, but also by its chemical insensitivity. Thus preoperative detection of reflux should determinate either the operational procedure and the postoperative follow up of the patient.