Diffuse esophageal spasm

Gastrointestinal system

Disorders of the peritoneal cavity

Summary

Diffuse esophageal spasm (DES) is a condition characterized by uncoordinated and erratic contractions of the muscles in the wall of the esophagus. These contractions prevent food and liquids from passing through the stomach and can cause chest pain, dysphagia (difficulty swallowing), and regurgitation. DES can mimic myocardial ischemia in that both cause retrosternal intense chest pain, and both are relieved with the administration of nitrates.