Definition
Zenker's diverticulum is a saccular formation, which can be found in the posterior wall of the pharynx, just above the esophagus.
In this herniation the ingested food stops, then the digestion is slowed down and the morsel tends to return upwards.
Zenker's diverticulum is the consequence of a weakening of the muscular wall: an increase in the pressure inside the organ can induce a gradual flexion through an area of the tunic that is weaker.
In addition, abnormalities of esophageal peristalsis, which normally facilitate the passage of food to the stomach, can contribute to the onset of the disorder.
Most common symptoms and signs *
- Halitosis
- Anorexia
- Retrosternal burning
- Dysphagia
- Dyspnoea
- Chest pain
- Pain in the Stomach Mouth
- Pain in the upper part of the abdomen
- Belching
- Mass or swelling in the neck
- Nausea
- Knot in the throat
- Weight loss
- Hoarseness
- Acid regurgitation
- Sense of suffocation
- Cough
- He retched
Further indications
Zenker's diverticulum can cause dysphagia, which is a difficulty during swallowing or a feeling of obstruction, since food finds an obstacle to its descent. Furthermore, episodes of food regurgitation towards the mouth may occur when the patient flexes forward or relaxes.
Other manifestations include halitosis and a sense of chest weight. Zenker's diverticulum can occasionally cause breathing problems, as the food, returning upwards, causes a feeling of suffocation; if regurgitation is nocturnal, pneumonia ab ingestis may occur.
Possible complications are the onset of inflammation and infections, due to the foods introduced that accumulate at the level of Zenker's diverticulum; in rare cases, perforation or bleeding may occur. Rarely, the diverticular pocket reaches such dimensions as to perceive a cervical mass on palpation.
The diagnosis is obtained by contrast radiography, endoscopy and esophageal manometry.
