Cricopharyngeal muscle spasm

Case contributed by Bálint Botz
Diagnosis almost certain

Presentation

Upper esophageal chronic swallowing difficulty.

Patient Data

Age: 70 years
Gender: Male
Fluoroscopy

Single contrast barium swallow reveals a characteristic, smooth posterior finger-like filling defect of the posterior esophageal contour. Otherwise unremarkable study (note the partial presence of the plastic container on some images is unintended and should be avoided). 

Case Discussion

A symptomatic cricopharyngeal bar is in line with cricopharyngeal muscle spasm

Also contributed by dr. Lilla Deaki

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