Dysphagia aortica: a fatal delay in diagnosis

Am J Emerg Med. 2015 Aug;33(8):1117.e3-5. doi: 10.1016/j.ajem.2015.01.057. Epub 2015 Feb 7.

Abstract

Extrinsic esophageal compression leading to dysphagia is an uncommon and late presentation of large thoracic aortic aneurysm named dysphagia aortica. Herein, we report an 86-year-old man who presented with 1-week duration of chest pain, backache, and dysphagia and was eventually diagnosed as dysphagia aortica. Our patient developed progressive dyspnea due to tracheal compression and failed surgery. The case illustrates the importance of early identification of the rare entity of dysphagia especially in elderly cases with cardiovascular disease with complaint of undetermined dysphagia accompanied with chest pain and backache.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Aged, 80 and over
  • Aortic Aneurysm, Thoracic / complications
  • Aortic Aneurysm, Thoracic / diagnosis*
  • Deglutition Disorders / etiology*
  • Delayed Diagnosis*
  • Fatal Outcome
  • Humans
  • Male