PAEA Surgery End Of Rotation (EOR) Practice Exam

What is the condition characterized by multiple acquired diverticula through the colon?

1. Diverticulitis

2. Diverticulosis

3. Colitis

4. Hemorrhoids

The correct answer is: Diverticulosis

The condition characterized by multiple acquired diverticula throughout the colon is diverticulosis. This condition typically results from increased pressure within the colon, leading to the formation of small pouches or diverticula in the colonic wall. Diverticulosis is often asymptomatic and is frequently discovered incidentally during imaging studies or colonoscopy performed for other reasons. In contrast, diverticulitis is the inflammation or infection of these diverticula, which may result from their obstruction. Colitis refers to inflammation of the colon but is not specifically related to diverticula, and hemorrhoids are swollen veins in the rectal area, unrelated to diverticular formation. Therefore, in the context of multiple acquired diverticula within the colon, diverticulosis is the appropriate and correct term to describe the condition.