What condition is characterized by the inflammation of diverticula in the colon?

The condition characterized by the inflammation of diverticula in the colon is acute diverticulitis. Diverticula are small pouches that can form in the walls of the colon, often associated with aging and a low-fiber diet. When these pouches become inflamed or infected, it leads to acute diverticulitis.

Acute diverticulitis typically presents with symptoms such as abdominal pain, fever, and changes in bowel habits. Diagnosis often involves imaging studies, such as a CT scan, which can reveal inflammation around the diverticula.

In contrast, diverticulosis refers to the presence of diverticula without inflammation and may not present any symptoms. Chronic colitis pertains to ongoing inflammation of the colon typically linked to conditions such as ulcerative colitis or Crohn's disease, but it does not specifically involve the diverticula. Colon cancer involves abnormal growths in the colon but is distinctly different from diverticular disease. Understanding these distinctions helps in differentiating between various gastrointestinal conditions and accurately diagnosing acute diverticulitis.