[Current concepts of diverticular disease pathophysiology]

The first description of diverticular disease (DD) is dated on XVIIIth century. During last decades the DD prevalence continuously increases, especially in western countries. Nowadays, in developed countries, DD of the left colon is one of the most common diseases of gastro-intestinal tract. Because of the prevalence and costs of treatment it is still in the limelight of scientists and medical professionals. This article summarizes basic epidemiological data and discusses actual concepts of DD pathophysiology. Despite fact DD becomes more and more important, its pathophysiology remains to be unrevealed yet. Further clinical, molecular and epidemiological studies are needed to show the process and particular stages of diverticula development and progression.