Intramural oesophageal diverticulosis: a correlation of radiological and pathological findings

Abstract

The radiological appearances of intramural oesophageal diverticulosis have been well documented (Mendl, McKay and Tanner, 1960). The pathological correlation has remained uncertain, restricted to information from biopsy specimens, and to the best of our knowledge the present case report is the first to describe the pathological features of this condition from a full-thickness specimen. The patient (unit No. 555499 K.C.H.), a 69-year-old Caucasian female, presented with a history of recent haematemesis and long-standing mild dysphagia. Barium examination demonstrated slight narrowing of a 6 cm length of the upper thoracic oesophagus. Numerous barium-filled sacs, 1−2 mm in length, projected from the oesphageal lumen in this region (Fig. 1). A similar appearance of tiny sacculations was present lower in the osephagus. Oesophagoscopy confirmed the presence of a narrowing just below the thoracic inlet.