Radiological investigation of dysphagia at D. H. Q. teaching hospital D. I. Khan.

BACKGROUND

Dysphagia is a common presenting symptom. In most of the cases with established dysphagia extensive investigations are required to ascertain the cause. A number of advanced diagnostic radiological facilities are available at bigger centers, however conventional radiography is the mainstay of radiologist in less equipped centers. This study was conducted to have a critical review of diagnostic accuracy of conventional radiography at our center.

METHODS

This study was conducted at Radiology department of DHQ teaching hospital, Dera Ismail Khan from 01-01-2001 to 30-06-2002. Available methods of conventional radiography including plain radiography neck, lateral view in extension, x-ray Chest P.A. and lateral views, Barium/Gastro-grafin swallow-AP and lateral views were used for the diagnosis.

RESULTS

Out of 100 cases, 35 patients were of Esophageal growth, 1 case of Esophageal Web, 4 cases of Esophageal Diverticula, 1 case of Corrosive Stricture, 1 case of Transverse colon-replacement surgery, 5 cases of Extrinsic compression by Cardio-megaly, 1 case of Esophageal Diverticula with growth, 2 cases of Retropharyngeal abscess, 5 cases of Achalasia, 2 cases of Hiatus hernia/gastro-Esophageal reflux, 4 cases of Foreign Bodies in the Esophagus-Coins/Fish bone, 2 cases of Marked Osteophytosis in the Cervical/Thoracic Spine and 1 case of Esophageal Atresia with Tracheo-Esophageal Fistula. The diagnosis was no radiological abnormality in 36 cases.

CONCLUSIONS

Diagnoses by conventional radiography methods is possible in most cases of dysphagia at our center, however advanced facilities are required for inconclusive cases.