Article ID | Journal | Published Year | Pages | File Type |
---|---|---|---|---|
4213123 | Respiratory Medicine CME | 2009 | 4 Pages |
Abstract
SummaryA 76-year-old male was seen in our hospital for hypoxic respiratory failure and bronchorrhea worsening over a few weeks. He failed treatment with antibiotics and diuretics. A CT scan of the chest was performed which revealed a dilated esophagus with an air-fluid level with evidence of aspiration. A contrasted upper GI series revealed typical “birds beak” appearance of achalasia. He was treated with botulinum injections into lower esophageal sphincter and his hypoxemia resolved. Achalasia is a lesser known cause of aspiration which can lead to respiratory failure. We have discussed the wide spectrum of aspiration syndromes seen in the setting of various swallowing disorders.
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Authors
Hakim Azfar Ali, Ganesan Murali, Berjees Mukhtar,