Bergmann Esophagocardial Syndrome

Bergmann esophagocardial syndrome is a rare disease characterized by compression of the lower third of the esophagus by the heart and aorta.

This syndrome was first described by the German physician Gustav Bergmann in 1878. The cause of the development of the syndrome is a congenital anomaly of the location of the heart, in which it is displaced to the left and/or up. This leads to compression of the lower third of the esophagus by the heart and aorta at their intersection.

The main symptoms of Bergmann esophagocardial syndrome:

1. Dysphagia (difficulty swallowing)
2. Pain and discomfort behind the sternum while eating
3. Feeling of a lump and difficulty passing food through the lower third of the esophagus
4. Regurgitation (return) of food
5. Weight loss and exhaustion

Diagnosis is based on radiography, endoscopy, and ECG data. Treatment is usually surgical and is aimed at restoring the lumen of the esophagus. The prognosis with timely treatment is favorable.

Bergmann Esophagocardial Syndrome: Understanding and Treatment

Introduction:
Bergmann's esophagocardial syndrome, also known as Bergmann's syndrome, is a rare condition that is characterized by specific symptoms associated with pressure causing the esophagus to transfer to the heart. The name of this syndrome is associated with the German physician Gustav Bergmann, who first described it in the early 20th century. In this article we will review the main aspects of Bergmann esophagocardial syndrome, its features, clinical presentation and treatment approaches.

Features and Clinical Presentation:
Bergmann esophagocardial syndrome is characterized by pressure from the esophagus, which leads to its displacement and contact with the heart. The main symptoms of this syndrome are often chest pain, pressure or discomfort, which may be accompanied by breathing problems, shortness of breath, tingling or numbness in the chest and arms. However, symptoms may vary from patient to patient, and some may only experience mild chest discomfort.

Diagnostics:
Diagnosis of Bergmann esophagocardial syndrome presents certain difficulties, since symptoms may be similar to other cardiovascular or gastrointestinal diseases. To make an accurate diagnosis, doctors may use a variety of methods, including an electrocardiogram (ECG), esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD), chest X-ray, computed tomography (CT), or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). These methods help rule out other possible causes of symptoms and confirm Bergmann's diagnosis of esophagocardial syndrome.

Treatment:
Treatment of Bergmann esophagocardial syndrome depends on the severity of symptoms and the general condition of the patient. In some cases, conservative methods such as dietary changes, avoiding certain foods, weight control, and exercises to strengthen the chest muscles may help improve symptoms. However, more severe cases may require surgery.

Surgical treatment may include various procedures such as endoscopic techniques (eg, endoscopic esophageal sphincter strengthening), laparoscopic fundoplication, or even open surgery to correct esophageal and cardiac abnormalities. Doctors choose the appropriate method depending on the individual characteristics of the patient.

Forecast:
The prognosis of Bergmann esophagocardial syndrome varies depending on the severity of symptoms and the chosen treatment method. In most cases, with timely diagnosis and appropriate treatment, patients can achieve significant symptom relief and improved quality of life. However, in some cases, especially in the presence of complications or concomitant diseases, the prognosis may be less favorable.

Conclusion:
Bergmann esophagocardial syndrome is a rare condition characterized by displacement of the esophagus onto the heart and specific symptoms such as chest pain and pressure. Diagnosis and treatment of this syndrome requires consultation with an experienced physician who can conduct appropriate testing and determine the best approach to managing symptoms. Modern treatment methods, both conservative and surgical, offer patients the opportunity to improve their condition and quality of life.