Diagnostic delay in achalasia

Background Achalasia is a rare disorder characterized by impaired esophageal motility and symptoms like dysphagia, regurgitation, chest pain, and weight loss. A timely diagnosis is crucial to adequately manage this condition. Aims This study aimed to assess the diagnostic delay from symptom onset to a definite diagnosis of achalasia, and to identify associated factors. Methods This retrospective, single-center study included patients diagnosed with achalasia between January 2013 and September 2023. Demographic data, symptoms, manometric, endoscopic, and radiological findings were collected. We also considered socio-economic deprivation. Early diagnosis was defined as occurring within 12 months of symptom onset, while late diagnosis was defined as occurring more than 12 months. Results We included 278 patients (142 males, median age 58 years). Dysphagia was the most common symptom (96 %), followed by regurgitation (70.1 %). The median diagnostic delay was 24 months (IQR 12–72, range 0–720), with 213 patients (76.6 %) experiencing late diagnosis. Early diagnosis was more common in patients with weight loss (63.1% vs. 42.0 %, p = 0.003). Lower material deprivation correlated with shorter diagnostic delay (24 months, IQR 10–60 vs. 60 months, IQR 18–300, p = 0.001). Conclusions Achalasia diagnosis is often delayed. Weight loss along with socio-economic factors, influence the timeliness of diagnosis. Improving awareness of disease and relevance of initial symptoms may facilitate earlier diagnosis and treatment.