An aberrant right subclavian artery, often referred to as arteria lusoria, can lead to a range of symptoms primarily due to its unusual course causing compression of nearby structures like the esophagus and trachea. While many individuals with this anatomical variation remain asymptomatic, those who experience symptoms typically report issues related to swallowing, breathing, and chest discomfort.
Common Symptoms of Aberrant Right Subclavian Artery
The symptoms of an aberrant right subclavian artery are largely a result of the artery pressing on the esophagus (causing swallowing difficulties) or the trachea (causing breathing issues). The most frequently reported symptoms involve digestive and respiratory discomfort.
Digestive Symptoms
- Dysphagia: Difficulty swallowing is the most common symptom, affecting a significant majority of symptomatic individuals. This can range from mild discomfort to severe difficulty with both solids and liquids.
- Weight Loss: In some cases, prolonged or severe dysphagia can lead to substantial weight loss, particularly if it exceeds 10 kg over a six-month period.
Respiratory Symptoms
- Dyspnea: Shortness of breath can occur if the artery compresses the trachea or major airways.
- Cough: A persistent cough may also be present, often related to airway irritation or compression.
Other Symptoms
- Retrosternal Pain: Pain or discomfort behind the breastbone is another reported symptom, likely due to the pressure exerted by the aberrant artery.
The prevalence of these symptoms varies among individuals experiencing discomfort from arteria lusoria, with swallowing difficulties being the predominant complaint.
| Symptom | Reported Frequency |
|---|---|
| Dysphagia (Difficulty Swallowing) | 71.2% |
| Dyspnea (Shortness of Breath) | 18.7% |
| Retrosternal Pain | 17.0% |
| Cough | 7.6% |
| Weight Loss (>10 kg over 6 months) | 5.9% |
These symptoms can impact a person's quality of life, making daily activities like eating and breathing challenging. Diagnosis often involves imaging studies such as computed tomography (CT) or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to visualize the artery's course and assess any compression. Management strategies vary depending on the severity of symptoms and typically range from conservative measures to surgical intervention in more severe or persistent cases.
