A Case of Diffuse Idiopathic Skeletal Hyperostosis with Dysphagia / 대한이비인후과학회지

ABSTRACT

Diffuse idiopathic skeletal hyperostosis (DISH) is an idiopathic, ossifying diathesis characterized by ossification and thickening at the site of attachment of a ligament or tendon to bone. Although DISH generally affects the lumbar spine, any segment of the spine may be involved. When cervical spine is affected, the extensive cervical spine osteophytes may produce dysphagia and laryngeal symptoms such as hoarseness, dysphonia, and dyspnea etc. We report a DISH patient with dysphagia as a presenting complaint. Plain radiographs and modified barium swallow (MBS) study demonstrated narrowing of esophagus due to severe cervical vertebral osteophytes. Anterior cervical decompression relieved dysphagia and restored esophageal function without major complications.