Importance of oesophageal manometry in the diagnosis of oesophageal motility disorders. Report of two cases.

Two cases of dysphagia, in which radiology led to an incorrect diagnosis, are described. In case I the X-ray barium swallow showed only minor oesophageal dilatation with no apparent delay in emptying or abnormality of the cardias, yet achalasia was diagnosed by oesophageal manometry. In case 2, although the barium swallow strongly suggested achalasia, manometry showed a less severe motility disorder characterized by lower oesophageal sphincter dysfunction and normal peristalsis. Correct diagnosis obtained with manometry was supported by the different clinical course of the two patients during a 2 year follow up. Oesophageal manometry should always be performed when radiology and/or the patient's history suggest the presence of a motility disorder of the oesophagus since a correct diagnosis is essential for appropriate treatment and follow-up.