Lower GI
Diverticulitis
• “Diverticulum” = Latin divertere (“to turn aside / divert”) — describing small outpouchings of the colonic wall.
• “-itis” = inflammation.
Together, diverticulitis means inflammation of a diverticulum.
Historical context
Described in the early 20th century when dietary fiber deficiency became common in industrialized nations. Burkitt later proposed the “fiber hypothesis,” linking low fiber → increased colonic pressure → diverticulosis → diverticulitis.
Most cases involve the sigmoid colon.
Open disease cards
• “-itis” = inflammation.
Together, diverticulitis means inflammation of a diverticulum.
Historical context
Described in the early 20th century when dietary fiber deficiency became common in industrialized nations. Burkitt later proposed the “fiber hypothesis,” linking low fiber → increased colonic pressure → diverticulosis → diverticulitis.
Most cases involve the sigmoid colon.