Diffuse idiopathic skeletal hyperostosis with dysphagia

Abstract

Dysphagia due to cervical osteophytes is not common. However, diffuse idiopathic skeletal hyperostosis (DISH) with cervical involvement which causes dysphagia is even rarer. The otolaryngologist is not generally familiar with this entity. The diagnosis can be made by plain cervical X-ray films, a barium swallowing esophagogram and or a CT scan of the neck. When doubt still exists, further extra-axial X-ray films can be helpful. Although most patients have been treated surgically, there may be a role for conservative therapy initially, as surgery in elderly DISH patients is often morbid and even fatal. A 79-year-old patient with DISH (Forestier's disease) is reported. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory therapy was successfully implemented. DISH is compared with other disorders of the cervical spine which may cause dysphagia.