Esophageal achalasia and adenocarcinoma in Barrett's esophagus: a report of two cases and a review of the literature

Abstract

Two cases of a rare combination of conditions, achalasia and adenocarcinoma in Barrett's esophagus are reported. Cancer developed 26 years after the onset of gastroesophageal reflux in one and 30 years after esophagomyotomy in the other. Twenty-one cases of Barrett's esophagus and achalasia have now been reported; adenocarcinoma developed in six patients. Only one has survived more than five years after treatment. Long-term surveillance of patients with achalasia is recommended.