[Diverticulitis--conservative therapy]

Diverticulitis due to diverticulosis of the colon is a common clinical problem with a high morbidity and socio-economic consequences. Frequent clinical signs are flatulence, abdominal pain, stool problems which may often be misinterpreted as the symptoms of an irritable bowel or a colitis. Accordingly, the diagnostic work-up must be adequate to allow for the stage-adapted planning and performance of the therapy.

The following questions will be addressed in this review: What do we need to clarify diagnosis? Which antibiotics should be used? What is the best conservative approach for treatment?

Basic conservative therapy consists of systemic antibiosis which can be extended by a topical antibiosis, and administration of aspirin as well as probiotics. The indications for a specific therapy is made on an individual basis according to stage (Hansen and Stock). Above all, a "team approach" and close communication between gastroenterologists and surgeons are mandatory for adequate treatment of these patients.