Diverticulitis

Question 1

What is diverticulitis?

Answer 1

Inflammation in diverticula from bacterial colonisation

Question 2

Symptoms of diverticulitis?

Answer 2

Fever

Severe pain

Question 3

Where is the pain usually found in diverticulitis?

Answer 3

Left IF

Can radiate to the back

Question 4

What are the signs of diverticulitis?

Answer 4

Rebound tenderness

Generalised peritonism

Question 5

Investigations?

Answer 5

FBC
USS
CT with contrast
- For free fluid

Question 6

What is the USS used to see?

Answer 6

Perforation

Question 7

What are the findings on bloods?

Answer 7

WCC, ESR and CRP all raised

Question 8

When is surgery indicated in diverticulitis?

Answer 8

• Large abscesses

- Generalised faecal/peritonitis

Question 9

What antibiotics should be used for mild attacks?

Answer 9

ORAL
Co amoxiclav
Metronidazole

Question 10

What is the treatment for severe diverticulitis?

Answer 10

IV
Co amoxiclav
Metronidazole

Fluids