- Common in Western countries and industrialized societies (∼50% of people > 60 years affected)

Etiology:- Genetic factors- Diet (low-fiber, rich in fat and red meat)- Obesity, low physical activity- Cigarette consumption

Classification: Hinchey

Clinical features:- Diverticulosis→ Mostly asymptomatic→ Most common cause of lower GI bleeding in adults→ Can present with abdominal pain in patients with chronic constipation- Diverticulitis→ Low-grade fever→ Sigmoid colon most commonly affected → left lower quadrant pain→ Possibly tender, palpable mass (pericolonic inflammation)→ Change in bowel habits (∼50% constipation, 25-35% diarrhea)→ Nausea and vomiting; caused by bowel obstruction or ileus→ Acute abdomen → indicates possible perforation and peritonitis

Treatment:- Acute uncomplicated diverticulitis: Broad-spectrum oral antibiotics for 7–10 days (Ciprofloxacin plus metronidazole)- Acute complicated diverticulitis: Broad-spectrum IV antibiotics (Piperacillin/tazobactam)- Emergency surgery: in case of peritonitis, sepsis or intestinal obstruction

Complications:- Bleeding- Abscess- Perforation- Fistulas- Intestinal obstruction