Acquired diverticula of the small intestine are formed via a mucosa and submucosa herniation through the muscular layer of the intestinal wall.
These diverticula remain asymptomatic in 60 to 70% of cases. Symptoms, when present, are non-specific, as they likely imitate other acute intra-abdominal conditions. The etiological diagnosis proves often difficult following initial assessment. In most cases, an exploratory laparoscopy is necessary in view of an accurate diagnosis.
This article consists of an exhaustive review of the literature in regard to this pathology.
What is already known about the topic?
Jejuno-ileal diverticulosis is an uncommon condition, contrarily to colonic diverticulosis. It mainly affects men over 60 years of age. The clinical picture is diverse and non-specific. Although most affected patients are asymptomatic, others suffer from complications that require urgent surgical interventions, resulting in high morbidity and mortality.
What does this article bring up for us?
This article illustrates clinical presentations of small intestine diverticular disease, which are often varied and non-specific. However, these presentations may directly manifest as complications with high morbidity and mortality, requiring urgent surgical interventions. Given this context, it is essential to be aware of this pathology so as to enable correct and timely management of this disease.
Key Words
Jejunum, diverticulosis, intestinal perforation, abscess