Diverticular disease of the colon and acute diverticulitis: what the clinician should know

Diverticular disease is one of the most frequent benign diseases, with high patient morbidity. Several complications can arise from it and in certain cases they can be very severe. However, this condition is most often asymptomatic and few individuals are aware of its existence. In the presence of diverticular inflammation patients seek emergency services with symptoms of acute diverticulitis. It is up to the clinician to proceed with a detailed clinical assessment, efficient workup and start adequate therapy. Additionally, it is essential to discern the need for a surgical approach. This article aims to contribute with an update on the diagnosis and treatment of acute diverticulitis and diverticular disease.