Megaesophagus
Megaesophagus is characterized by esophageal dilation and a lack of esophageal peristalsis. Congenital megaesophagus occurs due to a lack of esophageal peristalsis due to a developmental neuromuscular disorder. Acquired megaesophagus is most commonly associated with myasthenia gravis. Other non-neurologic causes of megaesophagus include hypothyroidism, hypoadrenocorticism, lead toxicity, dysautonomia, polyneuropathies, botulism or tetanus infection, or idiopathic megaesophagus.
Age of Onset:
Congenital - clinical signs apparent when the puppy is transitioned to solid food
Acquired - any age of dog can be affected (occurs more commonly in middle-aged to older dogs)
Congenital - clinical signs apparent when the puppy is transitioned to solid food
Acquired - any age of dog can be affected (occurs more commonly in middle-aged to older dogs)
Sex Predisposition: Any sex of animal can be affected
Clinical Course:
Clinical signs may worsen over time
Clinical signs may worsen over time
Clinical Signs:
Clinical signs listed include other common dysfunctions associated with neurogenic megaesophagus
Posture and Appearance
**Emaciation
**Lethargy
Movement
Exercise intolerance
Collapse
Weakness
Special Functions (e.g. respiration; urination)
Coughing
Dysphagia
Dysphonia
Hypersalivation
**Regurgitation
Respiratory distress (secondary to aspiration)
Muscle Atrophy
Generalized muscle atrophy
Other
Nasal discharge
Clinical signs listed include other common dysfunctions associated with neurogenic megaesophagus
Posture and Appearance
**Emaciation
**Lethargy
Movement
Exercise intolerance
Collapse
Weakness
Special Functions (e.g. respiration; urination)
Coughing
Dysphagia
Dysphonia
Hypersalivation
**Regurgitation
Respiratory distress (secondary to aspiration)
Muscle Atrophy
Generalized muscle atrophy
Other
Nasal discharge
Neuromuscular
Unknown
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