Background/aims: Bronchogenic cysts are congenital lesions of foregut origin, usually found in intrapulmonary or mediastinal locations. However, an esophageal bronchogenic cyst is an uncommon occurrence. The definitive diagnosis is based on histological findings after extirpation of the cyst. Surgical excision of bronchogenic cysts is considered appropriate because of the high complication rates of subsequent infection, rupture, hemorrhage, and malignant degeneration if left untreated.
Results: A 42-year-old man presented with a two-year history of progressive dysphagia. An esophageal bronchogenic cyst was evidenced by esophagography, Computed tomography, magnetic resonance imaging, and endoscopic ultrasound, followed by confirmation with surgical exploration.
Conclusion: Esophageal bronchogenic cysts should be included in the differential diagnosis of a mediastinal tumor, especially when the tumor is within or near the tracheobronchial tube, even though it is a rare condition.