Dysphagia secondary to left atrial dilatation

Area of Science:

• Cardiology
• Gastroenterology

Background:

• Dysphagia is a complex symptom with numerous potential causes.
• Cardiac conditions, particularly those causing atrial enlargement, can manifest with esophageal compression and dysphagia.

Observation:

• An 84-year-old female presented with dysphagia and weight loss, diagnosed with global heart failure.
• Esophagography showed distal esophageal compression; echocardiography revealed significant left atrial, right atrial, and right ventricular enlargement.
• Esophageal manometry indicated impaired peristalsis and low lower esophageal sphincter pressure.

Findings:

• Medical treatment targeting myocardial insufficiency and esophageal motility disorders led to the resolution of global heart failure symptoms.
• The patient's dysphagia completely resolved following the integrated treatment approach.

Implications:

• Left atrial dilatation should be considered as a potential cause of dysphagia in heart failure patients.
• This case highlights the importance of a multidisciplinary approach in diagnosing and managing complex symptoms in elderly patients.
• Early diagnosis and treatment of cardiac-induced dysphagia can improve patient outcomes and quality of life.