A rare case of dysphagia: hypopharyngeal amyloidosis masquerading as a post-cricoid tumour

Abstract

Amyloidoses are a group of disorders in which deposition of abnormal amounts of protein complexes (amyloid) occurs in a variety of tissues. The upper aerodigestive tract may be affected, particularly the larynx, but hypopharyngeal involvement is rarely reported. We present a unique case of amyloidosis of the post-cricoid region causing dysphagia. This case report highlights the need for otolaryngologists to consider the possibility of submucosal amyloid deposition, in the absence of mucosal lesions, in patients who present with dysphagia secondary to an obstructive lesion of the post cricoid region.