Recognizing and managing acute diverticulitis for the internist.

Colonic diverticulitis can present as mild abdominal discomfort or as life-threatening septic shock and can also mimic many inflammatory conditions. Most patients with acute diverticulitis can be managed with antibiotics and supportive care. Surgery is reserved for those with repeat attacks, disease unresponsive to medical therapy, certain complications, and the possibility of colon cancer that cannot otherwise be excluded.