| [ Summary ] |
The term curling esophagus or corkscrew esophagus has been applied to describe the phenomenon associated with diffuse spasms of the esophagus, observed during radiological examinations. In 1933, Schatzki reported a curling esophagus for the first time using the term "Krauselung." Originally a curling esophagus had been considered to be a phenomenon observed only in radiological examinations and was not thought to represent any disease entity. Recently, however the curling esophagus has been incorporated into the differential diagnosis of dysphagia or retrosternal pain, in addition to achalasia and ischemic heart disease. The term diffuse esophageal spasm (DES), characterized by non-peristaltic simultaneous spasms as revealed by esophageal manometry is used to represent the curling phenomenon. The nutcracker esophagus is another motor disorder characterized by high amplitude peristaltic movements. Since this condition is frequently associated with clinical symptoms it should be differentiated from DES. |