ABSTRACT
Esophageal duplications and bronchogenic cysts are part of the spectrum of foregut malformations as both seem to have their origin from the primitive foregut. Esophageal duplication cysts are seen in close proximity to the native esophagus. There may be associated duplications elsewhere in the gastrointestinal tract. Esophageal duplications are thought to be a result of an aberrant dorsal foregut development during the fourth to eighth week of gestation. Esophageal duplications are described as cystic, tubular, or neuroenteric in nature. The majority of esophageal duplication cysts present in early childhood, of which some are antenatally detected. Esophageal compression causes dysphagia. Tracheal compression results in stridor or respiratory compromise. Plain x-ray may reveal a paravertebral, smooth round shadow. In symptomatic cases, there may be a deviated or compressed trachea. Esophageal duplications warrant complete excision as incomplete excision inevitably results in a recurrence.
