Diffuse esophageal spasm

  • dysmotility disorder
  • five times less common than achalasia
  • strong repetitive non-propulsive contractions interspersed with normal peristaltic waves
  • these contractions may obliterate esophageal lumen
  • sometimes presents with chest pain
barium swallow
  • corkscrew or curling esophagus due to strong non-propulsive contractions
  • marked esophageal wall thickening
  • due to high pressure, occasionally diverticula may be seen