DIVERTICULITIS

According to Wikipedia Diverticulosis is the condition of having multiple pouches (diverticula) in the colon that are not inflamed. These are outpockets of the colonic mucosa and submucosa through weaknesses of muscle layers in the colon wall. They typically cause no symptoms

GENERAL MEASURES

Increase unprocessed foods in diet.

Supplement with bran.

MEDICINE TREATMENT

Localised diverticulitis:

• Amoxicillin/clavulanic acid, oral, 875/125 mg 12 hourly.

Severe disease:

• Ampicillin, IV, 1 g 6 hourly.

PLUS

• Gentamicin, IV, 6 mg/kg daily.

PLUS

• Metronidazole, IV, 500 mg 8 hourly.

REFERRAL

» Clinical deterioration or failure to improve.

» Peritonitis

» Fistulae

» Strictures

» Massive haemorrhage

Reference and further reading

wikipidia.org

Standard Treatment Guidelines and Essential Medicines List for South Africa 2012 Edition