A New Differential Diagnosis of Dysphagia: A Case Report of Lymphocytic Esophagitis

Lymphocytic esophagitis is a rare but increasingly recognized cause of chronic esophagitis. The pathogenesis, prognosis, and treatment are undefined. We report the diagnostic workup of an unusual cause of dysphagia. We present a case report of a 71-year-old female who presented with dysphagia for solid foods. The endoscopic appearance showed stenosis at the cricopharyngeus and trachealization of the proximal esophagus. Biopsies were taken to exclude eosinophilic esophagitis. The pathology showed lymphocytic infiltrate with peripapillary distribution with no granulocytes and spongiosis suggestive of lymphocytic esophagitis. Esomeprazol was started with symptomatic improvement. The symptoms and endoscopic appearance of lymphocytic esophagitis may be indistinguishable from other forms of chronic esophagitis. A high index of suspicion and mucosal sampling are essential to establish the diagnosis. Lymphocytic esophagitis seems to be a chronic and benign form of esophagitis. It should be included in the differential diagnosis of dysphagia. Further research and case reporting are essential to better define its pathogenesis, prognosis, and treatment.