Megaesôfago adquirido indiopático em felino: relato de caso

Abstract

The esophagus connects the oropharynx to the stomach and appears as a tubular musculomembranous organ. Its main function is to transport ingesta through peristaltic waves, facilitated by striated and smooth muscles. Although the esophagus is generally not visible on X-rays, it can be temporarily dilated under certain conditions, allowing for visualization.Megaesophagus is characterized by pathological dilation of the esophagus and reduced peristalsis, leading to motor disorders that compromise swallowing. Studies indicate a genetic predisposition in some dog breeds, such as German Shepherds and Labradors, while the condition is rare in cats. Megaesophagus can be classified as congenital or acquired; the former refers to animals that are born with the condition, whose etiology is not yet fully understood. Acquired megaesophagus typically affects older animals and can be idiopathic or secondary to diseases that affect esophageal motility.Clinical signs include postprandial regurgitation, weight loss, weakness, dehydration, and, in some cases, the palpation of a dilated cervical esophagus. Diagnosis is based on anamnesis, which must distinguish regurgitation from vomiting, and is confirmed by imaging tests, such as X-rays that reveal a dilated esophagus.Treatment depends on the etiology and the patient's condition, generally adopting a conservative and dietary approach. This involves offering small semi-solid or liquid meals while keeping the animal in an elevated position after eating. Despite reports of spontaneous resolution of idiopathic megaesophagus, understanding of the disease mechanisms is still limited. Cases of esophagitis or aspiration pneumonia may require additional treatment.This paper aims to report a case of acquired idiopathic megaesophagus in a female feline of undefined breed, 10 years old, treated at the Veterinary Hospital of the Federal University of Paraíba.