Pediatric Achalasia: A Guide to Diagnosis and Approach to Surgery

Pediatric achalasia disorder is a rare esophageal disorder which results in debilitating symptoms and may even retard childhood growth and development. Often misdiagnosed, pediatric achalsia, orginating as a neuropathic condition, is considered rare and difficult to diagnose. Although the disorder affects individuals at any age, approximately 10% of all achalasia cases are found in children. With advances in technology and the availability of surgery, children suffering from this painful condition may find relief through proper diagnostic testing and surgical treatment resulting in an improvement in nutrition and improved childhood development.