Which type of esophageal stricture involves Zenker's diverticulum?

Enhance your knowledge with the Internal Medicine End of Rotation Exam. Challenge yourself with multiple-choice questions and detailed explanations to ensure you excel.

Zenker's diverticulum is an outpouching that occurs in the pharyngeal area, typically just above the upper esophageal sphincter. It is characterized by the accumulation of food and saliva in the diverticulum, which can ultimately lead to an obstruction or narrowing of the esophagus. When a stricture is associated specifically with Zenker's diverticulum, it is referred to as a diverticular stricture.

In this context, the correct answer points to the relationship between the diverticulum and the resulting stricture. The diverticulum itself can lead to a change in esophageal wall dynamics and may create a narrowing or restriction to flow, making it a diverticular stricture. This type of stricture is distinguished from other forms such as intrinsic strictures (which are related to conditions like cancer or inflammatory processes within the esophagus) or extrinsic causes such as lower esophageal rings and webs, which are not directly related to diverticulums.

Understanding the context of Zenker's diverticulum is essential, as it can manifest with symptoms such as dysphagia or regurgitation, ultimately associating it with diverticular strictures that can complicate the clinical presentation of esophageal conditions. This highlights the importance of identifying the underlying

Subscribe

Get the latest from Examzify

You can unsubscribe at any time. Read our privacy policy