Achalasia mistaken as eating disorders: report of two children and review of the literature.

Däbritz J, Domagk D, Monninger M, Foell D

Abstract

Eating disorders are commonly considered diagnoses in young women who present with unexplained weight loss and vomiting. Our objective was to report the increased awareness of eating disorders and that it is likewise important to recognize that organic pathology (achalasia) can cause symptoms that may mimic an eating disorder and lead to misdiagnosis. Two case reports are presented and a review of the existing literature is provided. In the first patient, initial diagnosis of nonclassified eating disorder based on a pubertal conflict was made, and 3.5 years later diagnosis of primary achalasia was established. Atypical bulimia nervosa was initially suspected in the other case, but diagnosis of achalasia was established at an early stage of evaluation. The exclusion of organic disease must be a priority, even if a psychotherapeutic intervention may be needed in the global care of eating disorder patients. Esophageal achalasia should be considered in anyone presenting with difficulty swallowing or dysphagia, even if other features suggest anorexia nervosa or bulimia nervosa.