Diverticulosis is typically asymptomatic. Which statement is true?

• A. It Is Usually Asymptomatic
• B. It Commonly Causes Bloody Diarrhea
• C. It Presents With Fever And LLQ Pain
• D. It Requires Immediate Surgery In Most Patients

Answer: (A)

Diverticulosis means there are diverticula in the colon, and most people with this finding have no symptoms. The problem arises only when these diverticula become inflamed or bleed. So the statement that diverticulosis is usually asymptomatic is true.

Bloody diarrhea isn't a typical feature of uncomplicated diverticulosis. When bleeding occurs, it’s usually a painless rectal bleeding from diverticular sources, not diarrhea. Fever and left lower quadrant pain point to diverticulitis, not benign diverticulosis. And most patients with diverticulosis do not need immediate surgery; surgery is reserved for complicated cases such as perforation, abscess, obstruction, or uncontrollable bleeding.