Zenker diverticulum, also known as a pharyngeal diverticulum, is a condition where a small pouch or sac protrudes from the mucosa of the human pharynx. It is a false diverticulum because it does not involve all layers of the esophageal wall. Symptoms of Zenker diverticulum include dysphagia, obstruction, gurgling, coughing, bad breath, and possibly a neck mass. Sometimes, it becomes infected, leading to fever, throat pain, and a foul-smelling discharge. Complications of Zenker diverticulum can include malnutrition, pneumonia, and aspiration. Treatment options include surgery, endoscopic therapy to seal the opening of the diverticulum, or balloon dilation.
