Swallowing disorders. Diagnosis and medical treatment.

In this article, the diagnosis and treatment of gastroesophageal reflux (GER), esophageal primary dysmotilities, and esophageal infections were reviewed. Important systemic diseases, including endocrine, neurologic, and collagen vascular types, that affect the esophagus were discussed. Finally, theoretical mechanisms of aspiration and possible reflex bronchoconstriction secondary to GER have been reviewed. What is needed are further controlled studies of medications to treat GER, achalasia, and diffuse esophageal spasm (DES) with side effects safe enough, and efficacy strong enough, to permit patient acceptance and FDA approval for esophageal purposes.