Esophageal diverticula
Alerts and Notices
Synopsis

- Zenker diverticulum – proximal to the upper esophageal sphincter
- Traction diverticulum – mid-esophageal
- Epiphrenic diverticulum – proximal to the lower esophageal sphincter
The etiology of esophageal diverticula is unknown, but they are caused by weaknesses in the esophageal wall. Zenker diverticula occur more frequently in elderly patients; distal diverticula occur more frequently in patients with achalasia. Diverticula can also present proximal to esophageal strictures.
Codes
ICD10CM:K22.5 – Diverticulum of esophagus, acquired
SNOMEDCT:
414133009 – Esophageal Diverticula
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Diagnostic Pearls
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Differential Diagnosis & Pitfalls
- Gastroesophageal reflux disease
- Esophageal motility disorders (achalasia, esophageal spasm)
- Esophageal stricture
- Eosinophilic esophagitis
- Esophageal cancer
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Last Reviewed:12/14/2017
Last Updated:12/14/2017
Last Updated:12/14/2017