A pediatric case of Zenker diverticulum: imaging findings

Süreyya Burcu Görkem1, Ali Yikilmaz, Abdülhakim Coşkun

  • 1Department of Radiology, Erciyes University School of Medicine, Kayseri, Turkey. drburcugorkem@gmail.com

Insights

Zenker diverticulum, a rare pediatric condition, was diagnosed in a 10-year-old boy presenting with aspiration pneumonia and dysphagia. This case highlights the importance of considering this pharyngeal outpouching disorder in children with relevant symptoms.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Gastroenterology
  • Otolaryngology
  • Radiology

Background:

  • Zenker diverticulum is an outpouching of pharyngeal mucosa through a posterior pharyngeal wall weakness.
  • It is predominantly recognized as an adult disorder, with pediatric occurrences being exceptionally rare.

Observation:

  • A 10-year-old boy presented with symptoms including aspiration pneumonia, dysphagia, regurgitation, and halitosis.
  • These clinical manifestations prompted a comprehensive radiologic investigation.

Findings:

  • Diagnostic imaging, including chest radiography, ultrasonography, esophagography, and CT scans, confirmed the presence of Zenker diverticulum.
  • The imaging studies clearly delineated the pathological pharyngeal outpouching.

Implications:

  • This case underscores the necessity of considering Zenker diverticulum in the differential diagnosis of pediatric patients with unexplained aspiration and swallowing difficulties.
  • Early and accurate diagnosis through advanced imaging is crucial for appropriate management of this rare pediatric condition.

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