An immunocompetent 48-year-old with mild, CT-confirmed, uncomplicated diverticulitis (no systemic signs; tolerating PO) asks if she needs antibiotics....

Question

An immunocompetent 48-year-old with mild, CT-confirmed, uncomplicated diverticulitis (no systemic signs; tolerating PO) asks if she needs antibiotics. What is recommended?

Accepted Answer

Selective antibiotic use; many immunocompetent patients can be managed without antibiotics

Answer

Routine antibiotics for all uncomplicated cases

Answer

Mandatory inpatient IV antibiotics for 3-5 days

Answer

Immediate colonoscopy during the acute episode

Answer

Begin steroids to shorten disease duration

us-abfm MCQ (SBA): Acute Uncomplicated Diverticulitis

An immunocompetent 48-year-old with mild, CT-confirmed, uncomplicated diverticulitis (no systemic signs; tolerating PO) asks if she needs antibiotics. What is recommended?