Hereditary esophageal dysfunction in the Miniature Schnauzer dog

The presence of esophageal content and the increase in esophageal lumen can be attributed to deficient esophageal peristalsis. No anomalies in the vascular ring, stenosis, foreign bodies, or esophageal or mediastinal neoplasms are observed to justify the difficulty in the passage of esophageal content, suggesting that dysmotility could be the result of a primary motor pathology. A specific idiopathic congenital alteration has been documented in the Miniature Schnauzer breed. The diagnosis of hereditary esophageal dysfunction in Miniature Schnauzers is established through a process of exclusion, necessitating the exclusion of other pathologies that may present with esophageal motility disorders and/or megaesophagus. However, the chronicity of the process, the age and breed of the animal, the exhibited symptoms, and the endoscopic alterations found are crucial factors in the diagnosis. The recommended treatment for idiopathic megaesophagus primarily focuses on supportive measures. The prognosis for esophageal dysmotility is generally more favorable than that of idiopathic megaesophagus, as motility may improve over time.