Work

Congenital Esophageal Stenosis Presenting During Weaning in a 5-Month-Old Infant

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVES: Congenital esophageal stenosis (CES) is a rare condition that may present with feeding difficulties in infancy, often becoming evident during weaning. We report a case of CES presenting with progressive dysphagia during the introduction of solid foods. METHODS: Clinical evaluation, contrast esophagography, endoscopy, and magnetic resonance imaging were performed to characterize the stenosis and guide management. RESULTS: Imaging revealed a fixed narrowing of the mid-distal esophagus with minimal passage of contrast and proximal dilatation. Endoscopy confirmed a non-traversable intrinsic stenosis with macroscopically normal mucosa. The patient underwent three endoscopic dilation sessions under general anesthesia using Savary-Gilliard bougies with progressive diameters (3-5 mm, 3-7 mm, and 7-11 mm). No major procedural complications occurred. At 2-month follow-up after the last dilation, feeding was appropriate for age, dysphagia had improved, and growth was regular. CONCLUSIONS: CES should be suspected in infants with feeding difficulties that worsen during weaning, particularly when symptoms are resistant to anti-reflux therapy. Endoscopic dilation can improve feeding tolerance, although repeated and staged sessions may be required. The role of adjunctive therapies such as topical budesonide remains uncertain.

Source: Children

DOI: 10.3390/children13050706