Zenker's diverticulum associated with multilevel cervical osteomyelitis.

STUDY DESIGN

A case report of cervical osteomyelitis possibly associated with a Zenker's diverticulum perforation.

OBJECTIVES

To present clinical, radiologic, and surgical findings of a cervical osteomyelitis due to a Zenker's diverticulum perforation.

SUMMARY OF BACKGROUND DATA

A 56-year-old patient was in an intensive care unit for a severe head injury. He was fed via a nasogastric tube. Four months later he developed a pyogenic cervical vertebral infection.

METHODS

Plain films and magnetic resonance imaging showed a diffuse cervical osteomyelitis. Investigation of his dysphagia revealed a Zenker's diverticulum.

RESULTS

After administration of antibiotics and surgical treatment of the diverticulum, the cervical infection resolved. Plain films and magnetic resonance imaging showed healing with vertebral fusion.

CONCLUSIONS

Cervical osteomyelitis is uncommon. Only one case of direct contamination leading to cervical vertebral osteomyelitis after esophageal perforation has been previously described. Direct contamination of the prevertebral soft tissues by bacteria traveling through the fistula may have occurred. The development of vertebral osteomyelitis in this case is consistent with the hypothesis of direct contamination. Management relies on appropriate antimicrobial therapy and surgical management of the diverticulum. The association of Zenker's diverticulum with vertebral osteomyelitis and discitis is a unique, previously undescribed situation.