We report an adult patient who masqueraded as a case of gastroesophageal reflux disease for over 6 years. On close questioning he was found to have severe constricting pain in the retrosternal region and non progressive dysphagia for 6 years. Cineradiography of the oesophagus and CT scan chest revealed a large bronchogenic cyst compressing the oesophagus and the trachea. Excision of the cyst relieved the symptoms.