Zenker's

From WikiMD's Food, Medicine & Wellness Encyclopedia

Zenker's diverticulum is a diverticulum of the mucosa of the pharynx, just above the cricopharyngeal muscle (i.e., above the upper sphincter of the esophagus). It was named after Friedrich Albert von Zenker, a German pathologist.

Signs and Symptoms[edit | edit source]

The most common symptoms of Zenker's diverticulum are dysphagia (difficulty swallowing), regurgitation (undigested food that is not acidic), coughing, aspiration, and weight loss.

Causes[edit | edit source]

Zenker's diverticulum is caused by increased pressure in the hypopharynx and a weakness in the pharyngeal wall. This pressure can be due to a variety of factors, including age, diet, and certain medical conditions.

Diagnosis[edit | edit source]

Zenker's diverticulum can be diagnosed through a variety of methods, including barium swallow, endoscopy, and manometry.

Treatment[edit | edit source]

Treatment options for Zenker's diverticulum include surgery, endoscopic treatment, and dietary changes.

See Also[edit | edit source]

References[edit | edit source]


External Links[edit | edit source]

Zenker's Resources
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Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD