PAEA Surgery End Of Rotation (EOR) Practice Exam

What typically causes diverticulitis?

1. Viral infection

2. Fecalith obstruction

3. Excessive fiber intake

4. Stress and anxiety

The correct answer is: Fecalith obstruction

Diverticulitis is primarily caused by the obstruction of diverticula, small pouches that can form in the walls of the colon. When these pouches become blocked, often by fecal matter, inflammation and infection can occur, leading to diverticulitis. This obstruction can result from the accumulation of waste material, such as hardened stool or fecaliths, which can irritate the diverticulum and cause it to become inflamed. The other options do not contribute to the typical development of diverticulitis. Viral infections are generally associated with different types of gastrointestinal illness, and while fiber intake plays a role in maintaining bowel health, excessive fiber intake is not a recognized cause of diverticulitis. Lastly, stress and anxiety, although they can affect digestion, are not direct causes of diverticulitis. Understanding the significance of fecalith obstruction provides critical insight into the pathophysiology of this condition and informs both prevention and management strategies.