What is "diverticulosis"

n. (context pathology English) The condition of having diverticula, or small pouches, formed along the mucosa of the colon

n. presence of diverticula in the walls of the colon

Diverticulosis is the condition of having 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. Diverticular disease occurs when diverticula become inflamed, known as diverticulitis, or bleed.

They typically occur in the sigmoid colon, which is a common place for increased pressure. The left side is more commonly affected in the United States while the right side is more commonly affected in Asia. Diagnosis is often during routine colonoscopy or as an incidental finding during CT scan.

It is common in western countries with about half of those over the age of 60 in Canada and the United States affected. This is uncommon before the age of 40, and increases in incidence after that age. Rates are lower in Africa which has been attributed to a shorter life expectancy and poor healthcare access.The lower rate has also been attributed to high fiber.