Dysphagia from an aberrant internal carotid artery: a case report

Marie Bjerg Larsen; Pádraig O'Leary

doi:10.1007/s00405-025-09417-6

Dysphagia from an aberrant internal carotid artery: a case report

Eur Arch Otorhinolaryngol. 2025 May 7. doi: 10.1007/s00405-025-09417-6. Online ahead of print.

Authors

Marie Bjerg Larsen¹, Pádraig O'Leary²

Affiliations

¹ Department of Oto-Rhino-Laryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, Aarhus University Hospital, 8200, Aarhus, Denmark. marie_bjerg_larsen@hotmail.com.
² Department of Oto-Rhino-Laryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, Aarhus University Hospital, 8200, Aarhus, Denmark.

PMID: 40329041
DOI: 10.1007/s00405-025-09417-6

Abstract

Purpose: We present a case of dysphagia caused by an aberrant internal carotid artery (ICA). By reporting this rare occurrence, we hope to highlight the anomaly as a differential in cases of persistent, progressive dysphagia.

Results: Even though the symptomatic mass effect of the ICA warranted the option of surgical intervention, due to a patient-centered approach with an emphasis on personal preference, the patient was instead referred for specialized ergotherapy.

Conclusion: This case characterizes a rare yet significant cause of dysphagia, in addition, it illustrates the necessity of a multidisciplinary approach when dealing with complex cases of dysphagia.

Keywords: Dysphagia; Internal carotid artery; Occupational therapy.