An unusual etiology of Globus pharyngeus – the Killian–Jamieson diverticulum

Abstract

Mucosal outpouching between the muscles of the pharynx and proximal esophagus are known as pharyngoesophageal diverticula. These are rare acquired causes of dysphagia and globus sensation in the middle aged and elderly. This report is about a gentleman who presented with globus pharyngeus. Globus pharyngeus or feeling of lump in throat is a common presenting complaint. This is usually due to gastroesophageal reflux disease or psychosocial factors including stress in most cases. However, in this case on investigation, he was found to have a symptomatic Killian–Jamieson diverticulum. This is one of the rarer types of cricopharyngeal diverticula and a cause of globus pharyngeus. He was treated surgically by a transcervical stapled diverticulectomy. A cricopharyngeal diverticulum should be thought of in the differential diagnosis of cause of globus pharyngeus.