Public Health and Primary CareCase Report

Epiphrenic Esophageal Diverticula: Spectrum of Symptoms and Consequences

Jeremy H. Conklin, DO, MPH, MBA; Deepak Singh, MD; and Mark R. Katlic, MD, MMM
Notes and Affiliations
Notes and Affiliations

Received: October 10, 2008

Accepted: May 8, 2009

Published: October 1, 2009

J Osteopath Med; 109(10): 543-545
Abstract

Patients with esophageal diverticula may present with a variety of symptoms. Many of these symptoms mimic less serious disease, making diagnosis of esophageal diverticulum difficult for many primary care physicians. Delayed or missed diagnosis of this disorder may lead to more serious problems including gastrointestinal bleeding, aspiration pneumonia, and cancer. Our case series illustrates a variety of symptoms observed among three patients who were diagnosed and surgically treated for esophageal diverticulum. Appropriate diagnosis and management of esophageal diverticulum results in resolution of symptoms and decreased risk of morbidity.

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