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01-04-2022 | Diverticulitis | Review

Acute Diverticulitis in Young Patients: A Review of the Changing Epidemiology and Etiology

Authors: Greg A. Turner, Michael J. O’Grady, Rachel V. Purcell, Frank A. Frizelle

Published in: Digestive Diseases and Sciences | Issue 4/2022

Abstract

Acute diverticulitis is one of the leading gastrointestinal causes for hospitalization. The incidence of acute diverticulitis has been increasing in recent years, especially in patients under 50 years old. Historically, acute diverticulitis in younger patients was felt to represent a separate entity, being more virulent and associated with a higher rate of recurrence. Accordingly, young patients were often managed differently to older counterparts. Our understanding of the natural history of this condition has evolved, and current clinical practice guidelines suggest age should not alter management. The purpose of this review is to evaluate the changing epidemiology of acute diverticulitis, consider potential explanations for the observed increased incidence in younger patients, as well as review the natural history of acute diverticulitis in the younger population.

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Title: Acute Diverticulitis in Young Patients: A Review of the Changing Epidemiology and Etiology
Authors: Greg A. Turner
Michael J. O’Grady
Rachel V. Purcell
Frank A. Frizelle
Publication date: 01-04-2022
Publisher: Springer US
Keyword: Diverticulitis
Published in: Digestive Diseases and Sciences / Issue 4/2022
Print ISSN: 0163-2116
Electronic ISSN: 1573-2568
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s10620-021-06956-w

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