Right-sided Colonic Diverticulitis in the Young Population: A Review Article

Abstract

Although it is a condition of older adults, diverticular disease (especially of the right colon) is sometimes seen in patients under 50 years old. In the past two decades, reports on right-sided colon diverticulitis in the young population have increased. Therefore, we aimed to review the latest literature regarding this disease. Etiological and epidemiological studies give us partial answers on the occurrence of this condition. The sidedness and the fact that it occurs in younger populations make this condition important in terms of early and proper diagnosis to avoid unnecessary surgical explorative laparoscopies, laparotomies, appendectomies, etc. Most cases with acute right-sided colonic diverticulitis are mild, thus requiring a conservative treatment. However, complicated right-sided colonic diverticulitis is treated with some intervention (percutaneous drainage or surgery). No treatment guidelines are present yet, and the approach should be individualized and tailored according to the patient’s condition and the severity of the diverticulitis. In case of clinical deterioration, surgery should be considered regardless of whether it is open or minimally invasive.

Keywords

• diverticulitis, colonic
• diverticular disease
• conservative treatment