Case Report

Dysphagia in a HIV Patient: Concern for the Etiology?

Authors: Ravi K. Bobba, MD, Samer S. El-Dika, MD, Edward L. Arsura, MD, FACP

Abstract

Dysphagia in human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) patients is most commonly of infectious etiology; however, less common causes of esophageal injury, such as strictures and medication-induced injuries, should be considered in the differential process. We report a case of a 53-year-old man with a 6-year history of HIV on highly active antiretroviral therapy and minocycline, who presented to the emergency room with abrupt onset dysphagia to solids and liquids. He was found to have pill impaction requiring mechanical disimpaction related to an esophageal web and pseudodiverticulosis. In this case description we would like to highlight the importance of noninfectious causes of dysphagia in HIV patients.


Key Points


* Consider noninfectious causes of dysphagia in HIV patients.


* Not all complaints in HIV-positive patients are related to HIV infection.

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References

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