Colonic diverticular disease: current perspectives.

ABSTRACT

Diverticular disease is a common condition affecting large intestine in the western world, which, although remains asymptomatic in majority of people, can present with abdominal pain, acute diverticulitis, perforation, haemorrhage, intestinal obstruction and fistulation through neighbouring organs. Complicated colonic diverticular disease (CDD) is associated with significant morbidity and mortality. Increasing urbanisation globally with intake of diet deficient in fibres has led to CDD as a significant problem; hence awareness of CDD is paramount for its prevention and appropriate management. The purpose of this article is to provide a comprehensive review of the epidemiology, pathophysiology, clinical presentations, and current management of diverticular disease of the colon and its complications.