Dysphagia Secondary to a Large Anterior Cervical Osteophyte: A Case Report

Abstract

Introduction: Diffuse idiopathic skeletal hyperostosis (DISH) is a common systemic condition that leads to ossification of the anterior spine longitudinal ligament with anterior marginal osteophyte formation. Generally, these osteophytes are asymptomatic, but when they are extremely large, their sizes may extend to the point that can lead to mechanical esophageal obstruction and dysphagia. Case Presentation: Sixty-three years old, male, presented with severe progressive dysphagia caused by a giant anterior cervical osteophyte, which was treated with surgical resection of the osteophyte and interbody fusion of the affected cervical segment. Conclusion: Cervical degenerative disc disease and DISH should be included in the differential diagnosis when evaluating an elderly patient for dysphagia. Early surgical intervention with osteophyte resection and interbody fusion is recommended to prevent recurrent osteophyte formation.