Investigating cancer risk in patients with esophageal achalasia

Incidence and Risk Factors for Development of Epidermoid Carcinoma in Esophageal Achalasia

Observational University of Bologna · NCT03546998

This study looks at whether people with esophageal achalasia are at a higher risk of developing a certain type of cancer and what factors might contribute to that risk.

Quick facts

Study typeObservational
Enrollment681 (estimated)
SexAll
SponsorUniversity of Bologna Academic / other
Locations1 site (Cotignola, RA)
Trial IDNCT03546998 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This observational study aims to define the incidence and risk factors for epidermoid carcinoma development in patients with esophageal achalasia. A total of 681 patients diagnosed with achalasia have been followed since 1973, utilizing a prospective follow-up protocol approved by the local institutional review board. Clinical, radiological, and endoscopic data are collected and analyzed to understand the relationship between achalasia and cancer risk.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are individuals diagnosed with primary esophageal achalasia confirmed through radiology, endoscopy, and manometry.

Not a fit: Patients with pseudoachalasia will not benefit from this study as they do not have the primary condition being investigated.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could help identify at-risk patients and improve early detection strategies for epidermoid carcinoma in achalasia patients.

How similar studies have performed: While there is limited data on similar studies, the investigation of cancer risk in achalasia patients is a relatively novel approach.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* diagnosis of primary esophageal achalasia achieved by means of radiology, endoscopy and manometry

Exclusion Criteria:

* pseudoachalasia

Where this trial is running

Cotignola, RA

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions AchalasiaEpidermoid Carcinomaepidermoid carcinomaesophageal achalasiarisk factors
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.