Carcinoma in a Zenker's diverticulum

Zenker's diverticulum is a common developmental anomaly seen usually in the elderly. Carcinoma in this pharyngoesophageal outpouching has been reported in only 23 instances. A 55-year-old woman is presented whose only symptoms were dysphagia and periodic regurgitation of bloodstained material. Barium swallow and esophagoscopy confirmed the presence of a neoplasm, and biopsy revealed an epidermoid carcinoma. Wide field resection was followed by a full course of irradiation and secondary pharyngoesophageal reconstruction. The patient was free of disease at three-year follow-up.