What is typically seen in a patient with a corkscrew esophagus on barium swallow?

In a patient with a corkscrew esophagus as observed on a barium swallow study, one typically finds findings consistent with diffuse esophageal spasm. This condition is characterized by intermittent periods of simultaneous contractions in the esophagus, which can lead to the characteristic "corkscrew" appearance on imaging.

Diffuse esophageal spasm can manifest as chest pain, dysphagia, or regurgitation and is thought to occur due to an abnormal response to swallowing or increased sensitivity of the esophagus muscles. The barium swallow study reveals this distinctive pattern due to the significant contractions taking place throughout the esophagus, rather than the more coordinated and peristaltic movements seen in a healthy esophagus.

The other options do not typically present with the classic corkscrew appearance. Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) tends to show reflux patterns and not the spastic contractions characteristic of diffuse esophageal spasm. Esophageal stricture would generally present as narrowing of the esophagus without the dynamic spasmodic activity that defines diffuse esophageal spasm. Achalasia involves failure of the lower esophageal sphincter to relax and reveals a different radiological presentation on barium swallow, more resembling a dilated esophagus and narrowing at