digestive disorders
Definition of Diverticular Disease
Introduction
Diverticular disease is characterized by small, balloon-like sacs (diverticula) protruding through the layers of particular structures in the gastrointestinal tract (digestive tract). A single sac is called a diverticulum. Two or more sacs are called diverticula. By far, the most common site for diverticula to develop is in the Large Intestine (colon). Diverticula of the colon occur when the inner layers of the bowel protrude through the outer muscular layers. Diverticula may also Esophageal Pouches (Diverticula) and rarely in the stomach. The presence of one or more diverticula in the colon is called Diverticulosis of the Large Intestine . Diverticulosis is a condition that tends to develop during middle age. If diverticula become inflamed, the condition is called Diverticulitis . Diverticulitis can develop with or without infection of a diverticulum. 