Etiology and Pathophysiology of Diverticular Disease

Abstract

Diverticular disease is prevalent in Western countries and yet its pathogenesis remains poorly understood. The common theories of the cause of diverticular disease have focused on colonic motility, the structural aspects of the colonic wall, and the role of dietary factors, particularly fiber.

Epidemiology and Pathophysiology of Diverticular Disease

“…18 Approximately 10 to 25% of patients with diverticulosis will develop diverticulitis. 19,20 The prevalence of the disease in men is approximately equal to that of women. McConnell et al reported that diverticular bleeding occurs more commonly in men and strictures and obstructions occur more often in women.…”

Acute right upper quadrant diverticulitis: an unusual sonographic finding in a young adult patient

“…The pathogenesis of colonic diverticula is complex and multifaceted. Three major contributing factors have been described, namely disordered intestinal motility, deficiencies of dietary fibre and structural abnormalities of the intestinal wall . These factors cause areas of weakness to form where the vasa recta penetrates the muscularis propria.…”

An unusual radiological presentation of mucinous adenocarcinoma of the colon

“…It can be found in over 40% of the population over 60 years of age compared with only 2% of the population under 30 [1]. Although the whole colon can be aff ected, there is a tendency for diverticulosis to occur on the left side, particularly in the sigmoid colon [1]. In the vast majority of cases, the disease remains asymptomatic.…”

“…Colonic diverticulosis is a very common condition in Western societies and has an increased prevalence with age. It can be found in over 40% of the population over 60 years of age compared with only 2% of the population under 30 [1]. Although the whole colon can be aff ected, there is a tendency for diverticulosis to occur on the left side, particularly in the sigmoid colon [1].…”

“…Surgical resection of the primary tumor with locoregional lymph nodes is the mainstay of the treatment [1,2]. The most common presentation includes change in bowel habit, weight loss, rectal bleeding, anemia, and abdominal pain.…”