Diverticular disease

Diverticulosis also known as diverticular disease is a condition where there are numerous outpouches (diverticula) in the colon.

These outpouchings occur due to weakened muscle layers of the bowel wall.

When these diverticula become inflamed, they are known as diverticulitis.

The sigmoid colon is the most common location for diverticulosis due to the increased pressure exerted in this area, particularly when defecating.

This is often an asymptomatic, incidental finding, however extensive diverticula makes assessment for colon cancer more difficult.