# Acute Respiratory Distress in a Hospitalized Patient Revealing Cervical Diffuse Idiopathic Skeletal Hyperostosis (DISH)

## TL;DR

A hospitalized patient with alcohol intoxication later developed breathing issues due to a rare spinal condition called cervical DISH.

## Contribution

This case highlights a rare presentation of cervical DISH causing acute respiratory distress and stridor.

## Key findings

- The patient developed unexplained stridor and respiratory distress during hospitalization.
- Cervical DISH was diagnosed as the underlying cause of the airway obstruction.
- The patient required intubation and a tracheostomy for management.

## Abstract

Diffuse idiopathic skeletal hyperostosis (DISH) is a clinical condition marked by calcification and ossification of primarily ligaments of the spine and peripheral entheses. It predominantly affects older adults, with a prevalence rate of up to 42% in individuals over 65 years. It commonly presents with dysphagia. Stridor secondary to osteophyte compression has rarely been documented. This report discusses a patient who was admitted for alcohol intoxication following binge drinking and subsequently developed respiratory distress and unexplained stridor during hospitalization. He was intubated twice and later diagnosed with cervical diffuse idiopathic skeletal hyperostosis (DISH). The patient was discharged with a tracheostomy tube in situ and referred to a higher center for surgical management.