|
Diverticulitis is inflammation of a diverticulum, usually of the large colon.
Incidence
10-25% patients with diverticula develop disease. Recurrence is over 50% and increases with age.
Causes
Mechanical blockage of diverticula causing infection of the diverticulum.
Presentation
It usually presents as abdominal pain associated with diarrhea. Sometimes, there is a history of bloody diarrhea.
Diagnosis
Mostly diagnosed by physical exam. Diverticulitis should be suspected in more elderly patients with a history of chronic constipation. The diagnosis is confirmed with radiologic imaging or colonoscopy.
Lab findings
Treatment
Treatment will range from conservative management with medications to surgical resection of the affected bowel, depending on the severity of the disease.
Complications
|
