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
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 and weakness
Polymyositis – an inflammation of many different muscles in the body
Systemic lupus erythematosus – an immune disorder that affects multiple body systems
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
Endocrine diseases, including hypothyroidism and hypoadrenocorticism
Toxicity caused by exposure to lead, thallium, and organophosphate insecticides
Thymoma – a tumor arising from the thymus organ in the chest
Related Articles
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1
Regurgitation in Dogs
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.
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Esophageal Disease in Dogs
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...
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Esophagitis in Dogs
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.
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Hiatal Hernia in Dogs
A hiatal hernia is the protrusion of abdominal contents into the chest cavity through the esophageal hiatus, which is the natural opening in the diaphragm for the passage of the esophagus. These hernias...
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Myasthenia Gravis
Myasthenia gravis is a disorder characterized by muscular weakness that is aggravated by activity and relieved by rest. It is caused by an impairment of transmission of nerve impulses to the muscles, which...
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