Bronchogenic carcinoma masquerading as primary esophageal disease

This report describes our experience with six patients with dysphagia as the sole manifestation of radiographic, inconspicuous primary lung cancer and well-defined esophageal lesion by barium swallow. Esophagograms suggested leiomyoma, benign esophageal stricture, duplication cyst, achalasia, and primary carcinoma of the esophagus. Careful evaluation of the chest radiographs in all patients presenting with dysphagia is emphasized. The majority of esophageal findings are subcarinal and bronchoscopy should be considered essential in the workup of these patients.