A Zenker’s diverticulum often develops in the hypopharynx between the cricopharyngeus muscle and the inferior pharyngeal constrictor muscle. The etiology of Zenker’s diverticulum is not completely understood. It is hypothesized that Zenker’s diverticulum is the result of abnormal structure and physiology of the cricopharyngeus muscle.

Esophagitis is inflammation or injury to the esophageal mucosa with causes including gastroesophageal reflux (GERD), radiation, infections, local injury due to medications, pill esophagitis, eosinophilic, and eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE). Diagnosis may be based on clinical examination and history however endoscopy and biopsy examination are required to differentiate subtypes of esophagitis.

The Robust Esophageal Screening Test (REST) is a validated and standardized esophageal screening protocol, that is essential in specifying and expediting next steps for multidisciplinary teams.