An unusual cause of dysphagia

A case of dysphagia caused by anterior cervical osteophytes is presented. Although dysphagia and cervical spondylosis are common presenting problems, they are often unrelated to each other. The association between the two should, therefore, be accepted with caution; adequate investigation is necessary to avoid misdiagnosis. Review of the literature showed that this condition is relatively rare. The most likely mechanism of dysphagia is interference with swallowing at the pharyngo-oesophageal junction, although osteophytes in the lower cervical spine may also interfere with oesophageal peristalsis. Apart from the osteophytes of cervical spondylosis, those resulting from Forestier's disease, or Diffuse Idiopathic Skeletal Hyperostosis (DISH) have also been described to cause dysphagia.