Case of the Week #1 (Oct. 09, 2006)
Written By: Ramin Javan
Mr. J is 32-year-old male who presents to the ER with chest pain and a history of painful swallowing of liquid and
solid foods. He states that the discomfort is exacerbated at stressful times and while drinking cold beverages.
Occasionally, when lying down, he regurgitates a small amount of undigested food. He believes that he has recently lost about 6 pounds. Vitals include: T 38.5 degrees C, RR 20/min, HR 80 beats/min and BP 125/85 mmHg sitting. Mr. J is a construction worker who admits to being normally reluctant in visiting a doctor, but his condition has significantly interfered with his daily life. Imaging studies are performed to
confirm diagnosis (click on links provided in the left panel).