A clinical case of upper airway obstruction, dysphagia caused by diffuse idiopathic skeletal hyperostosis

Diffuse idiopathic skeletal hyperostosis (DISH, Forestier’s disease) is a rare non-inflammatory degenerative-dystrophic disease of the musculoskeletal system, characterized by calcification of ligaments and tendons, in particular the anterior longitudinal ligament. It is rare, more often among men over 60 years old. When the cervical spine is affected, DISH manifests itself as neck pain, stiffness of movement, dysphagia and, in some cases, difficulty breathing. The main goal of surgical treatment of Forestier’s disease is the removal of the osteophyte complex, however, with severe compression of the neck structures, indications may be given for the formation of a tracheostomy, installation of a nasogastric tube.