Intramural Pseudodiverticulosis of the Esophagus

Abstract

Intramural pseudodiverticulosis of the esophagus is a rare benign disease, developing most frequently in older males, but occurring in both sexes, at all ages. In some patients symptoms from early childhood suggest congenital origin. The characteristic appearance of “pinhead” outpouching from the lumen of the esophagus is seen with contrast esophagram. The major symptom is dysphagia with episodic exacerbations, often with foreign body lodgement. The pseudodiverticula are formed by abnormally dilated adnexal glands and ducts which lie in the submucosa of the esophagus. Secondary infection, most commonly momlial, is the rule, and surrounding inflammatory infiltration may progress to submucosal fibrosis and stenosis. Treatment with dilatation and appropriate antibiotics usually produces rapid relief. Prognosis is good.