Presentation
Work up for dysphagia.
Patient Data
Age: 60 years
Gender: Male
From the case:
Cricopharyngeal bar
{"current_user":null,"step_through_annotations":true,"access":{"can_edit":false,"can_download":true,"can_toggle_annotations":true,"can_feature":false,"can_pin":false},"extraPropsURL":"/studies/124268/annotated_viewer_json?lang=us"}
A smooth shelf like filling defect is present in the posterior aspect of the cervical esophagus at the level of C6, most consistent with prominent cricopharyngeus muscle, also known as the cricopharyngeal bar.
Case Discussion
The cricopharyngeal bar is usually asymptomatic. Some patients may complain of dysphagia, but a cricopharyngeal bar is rarely a cause. As a complication in a patient with long standing cricopharyngeal bar, increased upper esophageal pressure may result in a Zenker diverticulum.