Cervical Osteophytes: A Missed Cause in Dysphagia?

• Published in: Journal of clinical and diagnostic research Vol. 12; no. 4; pp. MC04 - MC06
• Main Authors: Rao, Santosh Uttarkar Panduranga, Bhoyar, Shraddha Subhash, Yempalle, Supriya Baswaraj, Ramachandra, Aravind Darga, Janarthanan, Sridurga
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: JCDR Research and Publications Private Limited 01.04.2018
• Subjects: cervical vertebrae; deglutition disorders; endoscopy
• ISSN: 2249-782X; 0973-709X
• DOI: 10.7860/JCDR/2018/35631.11406

Introduction: Dysphagia is a common symptom seen in patients in ENT OPD. Gastro-oesophageal reflux, foreign body, mass lesions being the known common causes. Cervical spondylosis with large osteophytes is one of the causes of dysphagia, which can be easily diagnosed even with limited facilities available but it is less discussed in younger age group. Aim: To evaluate the clinical importance and significance of cervical osteophytes as a cause of dysphagia. Materials and Methods: Seventy patients of either sex, between the age group of 25-59 years, with dysphagia were evaluated with complete history and clinical examination followed by upper gastrointestinal endoscopy. All common causes of dysphagia were ruled out. Patients were evaluated with a digital X-ray of cervical spine in lateral view. The results were analysed statistically using chi-square test and Fischer’s-exact test. Results: Out of 70 patients evaluated, 40 (57.1%) were female patients and 30 (42.9%) male patients. About 21 (30%) patients were found to have cervical spine osteophytes. Conclusion: After ruling out common causes, anterior cervical osteophytes should be remembered as one of the causes of dysphagia by the otorhinolaryngologists for effective management.