ZENKER DIVERTICULUM Meaning and
Definition
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Zenker diverticulum, also known as pharyngeal pouch, is a medical condition characterized by the formation of a pouch or outpouching in the area where the throat and esophagus meet. This condition usually occurs in the upper part of the esophagus, specifically in the posterior wall of the pharynx.
The development of Zenker diverticulum is often associated with a muscle weakness or dysfunction in the lower part of the throat, called the cricopharyngeal muscle. This muscle is responsible for the opening and closing of the upper esophagus during swallowing. When the cricopharyngeal muscle fails to relax properly or coordinate with the swallowing process, pressure may build up in the area, leading to the formation of a pouch or sac-like protrusion.
Symptoms of Zenker diverticulum may include difficulty swallowing, regurgitation of undigested food, recurrent coughing or choking, bad breath, and a gurgling sound or sensation in the throat. These symptoms usually become more prominent when eating solid foods or drinking liquids. If left untreated, Zenker diverticulum can potentially lead to complications such as malnutrition, pneumonia due to food aspiration, and weight loss.
Treatment options for Zenker diverticulum may include lifestyle and dietary changes, such as eating smaller and more frequent meals, avoiding certain foods or substances that exacerbate symptoms, and adopting proper swallowing techniques. In severe cases, surgical intervention may be necessary to remove the diverticulum, reposition the esophagus, or repair the weakened muscle. The choice of treatment depends on the severity of symptoms and the individual's overall health condition.
Common Misspellings for ZENKER DIVERTICULUM
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Etymology of ZENKER DIVERTICULUM
The term "Zenker diverticulum" is named after Friedrich Albert von Zenker, a German pathologist and anatomist. Friedrich Albert von Zenker was born on February 25, 1825, in Dresden, Germany, and died on November 22, 1898. He made significant contributions to the field of pathology, particularly in the study of gastrointestinal diseases. Zenker diverticulum, also known as pharyngoesophageal diverticulum, refers to a pouch that develops in the pharynx, specifically in the area above the upper esophageal sphincter. It is considered a rare condition and is named in recognition of von Zenker's work on its description and understanding.
