# Beyond the Classic Causes of Dysphagia: Bayford-Autenrieth Dysphagia

## TL;DR

This paper presents a rare case of dysphagia caused by an unusual anatomical obstruction in an elderly patient, highlighting unique diagnostic challenges.

## Contribution

The paper reports a unique case of Bayford-Autenrieth dysphagia in an elderly patient with respiratory symptoms, expanding understanding of its clinical presentation.

## Key findings

- The patient exhibited acute progressive dysphagia and dyspnea due to an aberrant vessel compressing the esophagus.
- Respiratory symptoms in an elderly patient with dysphagia lusoria are rare and complicate diagnosis.
- A thorough clinical analysis was essential to exclude more common causes of dysphagia.

## Abstract

Dysphagia lusoria (DL) is a rare clinical entity that presents with dysphagia derived from the anatomical obstruction of the esophagus by an aberrant vessel originating from the right subclavian artery. We present the case of a 64-year-old patient with a medical history of chronic, intermittent, mild, and self-limited dysphagia for over 20 years, wherein we formulated the diagnosis of DL. A 64-year-old woman arrived at the emergency department with a 24-hour history of acute progressive dysphagia, leading to intolerance to oral intake and minimal exertion dyspnea. A thorough clinical analysis and exclusion of other more common clinical entities will lead to its diagnosis. Our patient presented with respiratory symptoms, which is rare considering that these clinical presentations are more common in the pediatric population, explained by its tracheal elasticity. The combination of respiratory symptoms in an elderly patient, along with the typical mechanical dysphagia of DL, adds complexity to the diagnostic process, making this case unique.