A 65 year old patient comes with dysphagia, regurgitation and halitosis. On barium swallow it shows diverticula at upper oesophagus. Which of the following is false about this condition
**Core Concept**
The patient is presenting with symptoms of dysphagia, regurgitation, and halitosis, which are suggestive of esophageal dysfunction. The barium swallow study has revealed diverticula at the upper esophagus, indicating a condition known as Zenker's diverticulum.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
Zenker's diverticulum is a type of esophageal diverticulum that occurs at the upper esophagus, specifically at the junction of the cricopharyngeus and upper esophageal sphincter muscles. This condition is caused by the herniation of the mucosa through a weakness in the muscular wall of the esophagus. The symptoms of dysphagia, regurgitation, and halitosis are due to the accumulation of food and saliva in the diverticulum. The diverticulum can also cause aspiration of food and saliva into the airway, leading to respiratory complications.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
**Option A:** This option is incorrect because Zenker's diverticulum typically presents with dysphagia, regurgitation, and halitosis, which are consistent with the patient's symptoms.
**Option B:** This option is incorrect because Zenker's diverticulum is a type of esophageal diverticulum that occurs at the upper esophagus, not the lower esophagus.
**Option C:** This option is incorrect because Zenker's diverticulum is often associated with cricopharyngeal dysfunction, which can lead to difficulty swallowing and regurgitation of food.
**Option D:** This option is incorrect because Zenker's diverticulum can cause respiratory complications due to aspiration of food and saliva into the airway.
**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
Zenker's diverticulum is often associated with cricopharyngeal dysfunction, which can be treated with cricopharyngeal myotomy or other surgical interventions. It is essential to diagnose and treat this condition promptly to prevent respiratory complications and improve the patient's quality of life.
**Correct Answer:** D.