Dysphagia Mysterious

Mysterious dysphagia (lat. dysphagia lusoria) is a rare congenital disease characterized by impaired swallowing due to an abnormal origin of the right subclavian artery from the aortic arch.

In this condition, the right subclavian artery passes between the esophagus and trachea, compressing the esophagus and causing dysphagia (difficulty swallowing). Classic symptoms are difficulty passing solid food down the esophagus, a sensation of a “lump” and pain in the chest while eating.

Diagnosis of mysterious dysphagia is based on contrast-enhanced radiography of the esophagus and computed tomography. Treatment is mainly surgical and involves division or transposition of the abnormally located artery to relieve compression of the esophagus.

Early surgical intervention can prevent complications such as esophagitis, ulcers and cicatricial strictures of the esophagus. With timely treatment, the prognosis is favorable.