Diverticulitis

Alternative names:

diverticula; diverticulosis

Definition:

Diverticulitis is inflammation of an abnormal pouch (diverticulum) in the intestinal wall, usually found in the large intestine (colon).

Diverticulosis is the abnormal presence of small protruding sacs of the inner lining of the intestine.

Causes, incidence, and risk factors:

Small protruding sacs of the inner lining of the intestine (diverticulosis) may occur in any part of the intestine but are most common in the colon. They occur with increasing frequency after the age of 40.

Diverticulitis is an inflammatory condition where gross or microscopic perforation (hole) of the diverticula has occurred. It affects 10 to 20% of those with diverticula at some time. Infection can occur. Risk factors are older age and history of diverticula. Low-fiber diet may be a contributing factor to the development of diverticula. The incidence is 1 out of 1,000 people.