An 80-year-old man presented with a subepithelial lesion in the middle esophagus ([Fig. 1]). He reported no significant discomfort. His medical history was unremarkable. Physical
examination revealed no significant abnormalities.
Fig. 1 A subepithelial lesion (arrows) in the middle esophagus.
Endoscopic ultrasonography (EUS) with a miniprobe revealed a soft lesion without motion.
The esophageal wall was normal, with anechoic tubular structure outside the wall ([Fig. 2]). Doppler sonography suggested an abnormal artery communicating with the aorta ([Fig. 3], [Video 1]). Enhanced computed tomography (CT) confirmed the tortuous and dilated bronchial
artery, which was causing esophageal compression ([Fig. 4]). Thus, the patient was diagnosed with abnormal bronchial artery mimicking esophageal
submucosal tumor. As the patient reported no dysphagia or other symptoms, regular
follow-up was prescribed [1]. The patient remained well during 6 months of follow-up.
Fig. 2 Endoscopic ultrasonography with a miniprobe revealed a soft lesion without motion.
The esophageal wall was normal, with anechoic tubular structure (arrows) outside the
wall.
Fig. 3 Doppler sonography suggested an abnormal artery communicating (white arrows) with
the aorta.
Video 1 Endoscopic ultrasonography with a miniprobe revealed a soft lesion without motion.
The esophageal wall was normal, with anechoic tubular structure outside the wall.
Doppler sonography suggested an abnormal artery communicating with the aorta.
Fig. 4 Enhanced computed tomography imaging. a, b Imaging confirmed the tortuous and dilated bronchial artery, which was causing esophageal
compression.
Esophageal submucosal tumors are commonly encountered during clinical practice. Hemangioma,
leiomyoma, granular cell tumor, and cyst are common types [2]. In this case, we reported a rare condition of abnormal bronchial artery mimicking
esophageal submucosal tumor. Our experience further demonstrates the importance of
routine application of Doppler sonography or enhanced CT for determining the nature
of submucosal tumors.
Endoscopy_UCTN_Code_CCL_1AB_2AC_3AH
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