Beyond the Norm: Acute Multifocal Diverticulitis

Colonic diverticulitis is inflammation of diverticula, which are sac-like protrusions in the colonic wall. It is thought that increased intraluminal pressure and trapped food leads to inflammation. Newer theories suggest that alterations in the gut microbiome and chronic inflammation play a role as well. Diverticulitis commonly affects discrete sections of colon. Acute multifocal diverticulitis is defined as diverticulitis in at least 2 different sites of the colon separated by at least 10 cm, which is very rare. Ideal management is unclear; however, our patient improved with supportive measures and antibiotics without complications of abscess, perforation, or need for surgery.