Achalasia and carcinoma of the esophagus

Different figures regarding the relationship between achalasia and carcinoma of the esophagus can be found in the literature. Often achalasia is considered as a risk factor. The author analyzing the data collected from the Shanghai Chest Hospital (S.C.H.) and the Pathophysiology Department of the University of Palermo, both referring centers for esophageal diseases conclude that carcinoma of the esophagus in achalasic patients is just a coincidence and no relationship can be found between the two diseases.