Cricopharyngeal Achalasia Leading to Recurrent Pneumonia and Failure to Thrive in an Infant: A Case Report

Cricopharyngeal achalasia (CPA) is a rare cause of feeding difficulties in children, potentially leading to failure to thrive (FTT) and recurrent pneumonia. It involves the partial or complete inability of the upper oesophageal sphincter to relax. We present the case of a 12-month-old male infant with FTT, recurrent pneumonia, chronic cough, watery diarrhoea, laryngopharyngeal reflux and vomiting. Following a series of clinical examinations and diagnostic procedures, CPA was diagnosed. Early and accurate diagnosis of CPA is critical to reduce the risk of progressive or irreversible lung damage. In this case, the infant underwent a cricopharyngeal myotomy, a procedure considered effective and safe.