Section: Information In-depth
Because the history, physical examination findings and overall presentation of animals with megaesophagus are variable, there are other illnesses that must be ruled out when establishing a definitive diagnosis. It is important to note that regurgitation, which is the effortless evacuation of fluid, mucus, and undigested food from the esophagus, is the most common clinical sign associated with megaesophagus. Regurgitation must be differentiated from vomiting, which is the forceful evacuation of digested food from the stomach.
The following are often associated with regurgitation:
Esophagitis – an inflammation of the esophagus
Foreign bodies that obstruct or block the esophagus
Esophageal neoplasia (cancer)
Hiatal hernia – an abnormality of the diaphragm that allows part of the stomach to be displaced into the thoracic (chest) cavity, uncommon in the cat
Esophageal diverticula – a pouch-like dilatation or ballooning of the esophageal wall that can be present from birth or acquired secondary to esophageal weakness
Megaesophagus may occur as a component of several systemic diseases, such as:
Myasthenia gravis – an immune disorder that causes fatigue of the muscular system, weakness, downward turning of the head and neck, and difficulty meowing; it is uncommon in the cat
Polymyositis – an inflammation of many different muscles in the body
Botulism – a type of food poisoning
Tetanus – a bacterial infection causing severe muscle spasms
Dysautonomia – an inflammation and degeneration of certain components of the autonomic nervous system
Toxicity caused by exposure to lead, thallium, and organophosphate insecticides
Thymoma – a tumor arising from the thymus organ in the chest
Related Articles
-
1
Esophageal Disease in Cats
The esophagus is the tubular, muscular organ that extends from the pharynx to the stomach and functions to transmit ingested material to the stomach. Esophageal disease is any disease that effects the...
» Read More
-
2
Esophagitis in Cats
Esophagitis is an inflammation of the esophagus that can occur from a variety of causes. Frequent vomiting, reflux of gastric juices or ingestion of corrosive chemicals are the most common causes.
» Read More
-
3
Regurgitation in Cats
Unlike vomiting, regurgitation is not accompanied by nausea and does not involve forceful abdominal contractions. It is a symptom of esophageal disease and not a disorder in itself.
» Read More
