Abstract

Diffuse idiopathic skeletal hyperostosis (DISH) is an under-diagnosed condition producing flowing ossification of the antero-lateral ligaments of the spine. Affecting predominantly males over 65 years old, it is an unusual cause of dysphagia and dysphonia. We report a 45-year-old male with a three years history of dysphonia and three months of dysphagia. The initial diagnosis was gastroesophageal reflux, and an endoscopy ruled out esophageal luminal pathology. Cervical spine radiographs showed ossification of the cervical anterior longitudinal ligament with large, prominent osteophytes from C3 to C6, producing esophageal and upper airway compression; these images were compatible with DISH. Cervical osteophyte resection resulted in complete resolution of symptoms. DISH should be considered in the differential diagnosis of dysphagia and dysphonia.