A Case of Achalasia Detected during a Health Check-up

Abstract

  We report a case of achalasia, which was identified and diagnosed during a health check-up. A 53-year-old man was screened by a periodic employee involved with the health check-up. Chest radiography was performed and showed abnormal findings such as the disappearance of gastric air bubbles, abnormal shadowing of the esophagus, and a dilated esophagus. In addition, the enlarged esophagus was confirmed by chest computed tomography.

  The diagnosis was subsequently confirmed by barium swallow imaging. Pneumatic dilation using Rigiflex^TM 3.0 cm in the outer diameter was performed and all complaints have disappeared. In most cases of achalasia, abnormal esophageal dilation is shown before the appearance of symptoms, and the characteristic shadow and disappearance of gastric air bubbles in chest radiography can be an important diagnostic strategy. However, little knowledge and a high level of attention may be enough to detect achalasia during a health check-up.