Zenker diverticulum

What it is

Zenker's diverticulum is a sac-like outpouching of mucosa and submucosa through Killian's triangle. It is also called the pharyngoesophageal or hypopharyngeal diverticulum.

How it presents

It is seen in the elder patient, and the group of symptoms is well known:

• Transient oropharyngeal dysphagia, felt at the initial swallowing.
• Regurgitation.
• Halitosis, or bad breath.
• Weight loss.

How it is diagnosed

Barium swallow is the investigation. The barium X-ray shows the outpouching of mucosa.