Dysphagia lusoria is due to
**Core Concept**
Dysphagia lusoria is a rare condition characterized by difficulty swallowing due to external compression of the esophagus by an aberrant right subclavian artery. This anomaly occurs in approximately 0.1% to 0.5% of the population.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
The aberrant right subclavian artery arises from the left side of the aortic arch and crosses over the midline to reach the right arm, thereby compressing the esophagus from the outside. This compression can lead to symptoms of dysphagia, regurgitation, and chest pain. The name "lusoria" comes from the Latin word for "playful" or "mischievous" due to the unusual and unpredictable nature of this anomaly.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
**Option A:** This is not correct because the aberrant right subclavian artery is not typically associated with a left-sided aortic arch. However, in some cases, the left subclavian artery may be replaced by an aberrant right subclavian artery, but this is not the typical cause of dysphagia lusoria.
**Option B:** This option is incorrect because the aberrant right subclavian artery is not typically associated with a right-sided aortic arch. The typical presentation of a right-sided aortic arch is with esophageal compression by the aortic arch itself, not an aberrant subclavian artery.
**Option C:** This option is incorrect because the aberrant right subclavian artery is not typically associated with a Kommerell's diverticulum. While a Kommerell's diverticulum can be a complication of an aberrant right subclavian artery, it is not the primary cause of dysphagia lusoria.
**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
The term "lusoria" was coined by the French physician Ambroise ParΓ© in the 16th century to describe this rare and unusual anomaly. It is essential to be aware of this condition in patients presenting with unexplained dysphagia, as it may require surgical intervention to alleviate symptoms.
**Correct Answer: C. Aberrant right subclavian artery.**