Diverticulitis

Diverticulitis occurs when there is inflammation, with or without infection, in the diverticula, which are pouch-like outcroppings (herniations) of the intestinal wall. Can be acute, chronic, or recurring. Review large intestine anatomy Diverticula are saclike pouches that protrude through the wall of the colon; these are often asymptomatic. Diverticulosis, the presence of multiple diverticula, is common, especially in adults over 60 years old. Severe left lower quadrant pain/epigastric pain, onset approximately an hour after eating. May also present with nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, fever. Risk of recurrent acute diverticulitis is high. Perforation and bacterial infection were thought to be the main cause of diverticulitis; dietary triggers (nuts, popcorn, etc) were thought to be responsible for perforation and irritation. Newer evidence suggests that, at least in some patients, inflammation is the key cause. Diverticulitis with Purulent Inflammation: Histopathology Gross Pathology Colonic stricture, fistula, perforation. CT Scan