Megaoesophagus

The Oesophagus is the gateway to your gastrointestinal tract and is often not talked about. The oesophagus can have numerous diseases and ailments that can affect it, from obstruction to inflammation, neoplasia and strictures. Today we are going to touch on a rare but interesting disease called megaoesophagus. 

Megaoesophagus is oesophageal hypomotility with secondary dilatation. It can be both acquired or congenital and occurs in young and old animals. Anything from foreign bodies, trauma and neoplasia to toxins and infectious causes can prelude to megaoesophagus. 

The main clinical sign noticed with megaoesophagus is regurgitation. It is important to not confuse regurgitation and vomiting, remember regurgitation is a passive process and vomiting usually appears to be forceful expulsion of food. Other abnormalities may include difficulty swallowing, hypersalivation, weakness, weight loss, and struggling to gain weight. 

The best way to diagnose megaoesophagus is via imaging (radiographs and/or endoscopy). Dogs are more likely to be diagnosed with this condition and young animals are more likely to have congenital megaoesophagus whereas older animals are more likely to acquire the disease through another 

cause. Females and males are equally affected. The best way to manage megaoesophagus is through supportive care and thorough eating and drinking advice from your veterinarian.