Zenker's Diverticulum in Forestier Disease: Chance or Causality?

Abstract

Zenker's diverticulum is an acquired sac-like outpouching of the mucosa and submucosa layers originating at the pharyngoesophageal junction. The predominant symptom of Zenker's diverticulum is dysphagia. Videofluoroscopy confirms the diagnosis. Forestier disease is a clinical entity characterized by ossification of anterolateral vertebral ligament and anterior osteophyte formation along the anterolateral spinal column. Its etiopathogenesis remains unknown and common symptoms are dysphagia, dysphonia and airway obstruction. The objective of this study is to identify a pathophysiological correlation between Forestier disease and the onset of Zenker's diverticulum.