[Familial dysphagia].

The etiology of achalasia and diffuse esophageal spasm remains unknown. We report on two families (father/son, mother/son) with achalasia and esophageal spasm, respectively, who were examined by radiology, endoscopy and manometry. One patient (mother) died from aspiration pneumonia. These observations support the hypothesis of a genetic trait in some cases of esophageal motility disorders. In addition, the coincidence of familial achalasia and esophageal spasm is in support of a close relationship of both diseases. Achalasia is a potentially letal disorder.