Which statement about diverticular disease is true?

• A. It involves the liver
• B. It occurs only in children
• C. Protrusions from the large intestine can become inflamed
• D. It is caused by a viral infection

Answer: (C)

Diverticula are sac-like protrusions of mucosa through the wall of the colon, most often in the sigmoid region. When these pouches become inflamed or infected, the condition is diverticulitis. This matches the true statement because it describes how diverticular disease actually manifests. It’s a colon issue, not a liver problem, it’s more common in older adults than in children, and it isn’t caused by a viral infection. Typical signs of inflammation include left lower quadrant abdominal pain, fever, and an elevated white blood cell count, with treatment ranging from dietary changes and antibiotics for mild cases to more intensive care if complications arise.