Cervical osteophytes resulting in dysphagia: A case report with literature review

Dysphagia may result from either organic or structural conditions, whether malignant or benign, or functional disorders, primarily involving motility or sensory perception. However, its occurrence due to cervical osteophytes is a rare phenomenon. This report presents a case of anterior cervical osteophytes inducing dysphagia. An 81-year-old man presented with complaints of weakness, fever, dysphagia, loss of appetite, and weight loss. Esophagogastroduodenoscopy showed a bulge in the posterior pharyngeal wall. A computed tomography scan revealed anterior cervical osteophytes extending from C2 to C6, most prominently between C3 and C4. The patient was treated conservatively as he rejected surgical intervention. Dysphagia primarily impairs the swallowing of solid foods, and in more severe cases, also affects liquid intake and speech. Anterior cervical osteophytes can arise due to reactive bone formation in the anterior longitudinal ligaments due to degenerative conditions. Diagnostic evaluation involves endoscopy, various imaging modalities, esophagogastroduodenal transit studies, and other techniques such as videofluoroscopic swallowing studies. Most cases are managed conservatively using medical therapy and supportive interventions. However, when conservative measures fail, osteophytectomy may be indicated, although it may carry potential postoperative risks and complications. In conclusion, dysphagia caused by anterior cervical osteophytes is uncommon, and more frequent etiologies should be carefully excluded before establishing the diagnosis.