Diverticulitis

Diverticulitis is a condition that affects the large intestine, specifically the colon. It occurs when small pouches called diverticula become inflamed or infected. These pouches form in weak spots of the colon wall and can cause symptoms like abdominal pain, usually on the lower left side, fever, and changes in bowel habits. The inflammation can lead to complications such as abscesses or perforation if untreated. This condition mainly impacts digestion and can cause discomfort and serious health issues if it worsens.

Diverticulitis is defined as the inflammation or infection of colonic diverticula, which are sac-like protrusions of the mucosa and submucosa through the muscular layer of the colon wall. It typically results from microperforation of a diverticulum due to increased intraluminal pressure or fecalith obstruction. The condition is most common in the sigmoid colon and presents with left lower quadrant abdominal pain, fever, and leukocytosis. It is a major cause of acute abdominal pain in adults and can lead to complications such as abscess formation, fistulas, bowel obstruction, or perforation. The pathophysiology involves localized inflammation, bacterial invasion, and sometimes systemic infection. Diagnosis and management are critical to prevent morbidity.