Korean J Gastrointest Motil.  1998 Nov;4(2):127-132.

A Case of Nutcracker Esophagus Associated with Gastroesophageal Reflux: Normalization of Manometry Finding after Omeprazole Therapy

• Kim BK
• Choi MG
• Na JS
• Kim BW
• Moon SB
• Choi H
• Kim JK
• Chung IS
• Chung KW
• Sun HS

Abstract

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is thought to be caused by an incompetent lower esophageal sphincter, either because of a chronic hypotonia or an increased frequency of transient lower esophageal sphincter relaxation. Thus, it seems paradoxical under nutcracker esophagus to consider gastroesophageal reflux as a possible diagnosis, particularly in the patient presenting with chest pain. Current therapy in nutcracker esophagus is aimed at reducing the high amplitude peristaltic contractions characteristic of this disorder. Treatment directed at reducing contraction can decrease lower esophageal sphincter pressure and may exacerbate gastroesophageal reflux. It is not easy to treat a case of nutcracker esophagus associated with GERD. We report a 38-year-old male with nutcracker esophagus associated with GERD who lost the diagnostic features of nutcracker esophagus after 6 week of antireflux therapy.

Keyword

Chest pain; Esophageal Motility Disorder; Gastroesophageal reflux; Omeprazole

MeSH Terms

Adult
Chest Pain
Diagnosis
Esophageal Motility Disorders*
Esophageal Sphincter, Lower
Gastroesophageal Reflux*
Humans
Male
Manometry*
Muscle Hypotonia
Omeprazole*
Relaxation
Omeprazole