Diverticulitis of the right colon

Area of Science:

• Gastroenterology
• Radiology

Background:

• Diverticulitis typically affects the left colon.
• Right colon diverticulitis is rare and often misdiagnosed as acute appendicitis.
• Surgical intervention is common due to diagnostic challenges.

Observation:

• This study presents five cases of right colon diverticulitis.
• Barium enema studies were utilized for diagnosis.
• Four cases showed intramural mass effect and colonic wall involvement.

Findings:

• Diverticula were present in all five patients with right colon diverticulitis.
• Barium studies revealed characteristic intramural mass effects.
• Non-surgical diagnosis is feasible with appropriate imaging.

Implications:

• Barium enema can aid in diagnosing right colon diverticulitis.
• Accurate diagnosis allows for successful medical management.
• Reduced unnecessary surgeries for appendicitis-like presentations.