Update on Diverticular Disease and Implications for Primary Care

Abstract

Recent data would seem to suggest a change in primary care management of diverticulosis. Studies now question the etiology, management, and recommendations for primary and secondary prevention of diverticular disease in the primary care setting. Although diverticulosis is commonly found on colonoscopy, few patients will go on to develop diverticular disease, which is characterized by abdominal symptoms and the presence of chronic inflammation in some cases. Data suggest more active management and specialty referral for patients with diverticular disease to prevent complications of bleeding, diverticulitis, colitis, abscess formation, fistula, stricture, and perforation and, possibly, neoplasia.