title: Recent advances in the treatment of colonic diverticular disease and prevention of acute diverticulitis.
abstract: The incidence of diverticulosis and diverticular disease of the colon is increasing worldwide. Although the majority of patients remains asymptomatic long-life, the prevalence of diverticular disease of the colon, including acute diverticulitis, is substantial and is becoming a significant burden on National Health Systems in terms of direct and indirect costs. Focus is now being drawn on identifying the correct therapeutic approach by testing various treatments. Fiber, non-absorbable antibiotics and probiotics seem to be effective in treating symptomatic and uncomplicated patients, and 5-aminosalicylic acid might help prevent acute diverticulitis. Unfortunately, robust evidence on the effectiveness of a medical strategy to prevent acute diverticulitis recurrence is still lacking. We herein provide a concise review on the effectiveness and future perspectives of these treatments.
authors.affiliation: Division of Gastroenterology, ASL Roma H, Albano Laziale, Rome (Walter Elisei).
authors.forename: Walter
authors.initials: W
authors.lastname: Elisei
authors.affiliation: Gastroenterology Service, ASL BAT, Andria (Antonio Tursi), Italy.
authors.forename: Antonio
authors.initials: A
authors.lastname: Tursi
keywords: 5-aminosalicylic acid; Diverticular disease; acute diverticulitis; high-fiber diet; nonabsorbable antibiotics; probiotics