When a diverticulum bursts, a condition known as diverticulitis can occur. Diverticula are small, bulging pouches that can form in the walls of the colon, particularly in areas of weakened muscle. When these pouches become inflamed or infected, diverticulitis develops. In some cases, the diverticulum can rupture or burst, leading to more severe complications.
When a diverticulum bursts, several processes can contribute to the development of an open sore (or perforation) and sepsis:
Infection: The diverticulum may become infected due to the presence of fecal matter or bacteria within the pouch. When the diverticulum bursts, the infection can spread into the abdominal cavity, leading to peritonitis, which is inflammation and infection of the lining of the abdominal cavity.
Open Sore (Perforation): The rupture of the diverticulum creates an opening in the colon wall, which results in an open sore. This open sore allows the contents of the colon, including bacteria and fecal matter, to leak into the surrounding tissues and abdominal cavity.
Inflammation: The leakage of fecal matter and bacteria into the abdominal cavity triggers a strong inflammatory response as the body tries to fight off the infection. The inflammation can lead to the formation of abscesses, which are pockets of pus that develop as the body's immune system attempts to contain the infection.
Sepsis: Sepsis is a severe and potentially life-threatening response to an infection that occurs when the body's immune system releases a flood of chemicals into the bloodstream to combat the infection. In severe cases, this immune response can become dysregulated and lead to widespread inflammation throughout the body, affecting organs and tissues distant from the original site of infection. This can result in organ dysfunction and failure, leading to septic shock, which is a medical emergency.
The diverticulum can become irritated after it bursts due to the continuous presence of irritants such as fecal matter, bacteria, and digestive enzymes that leak into the surrounding tissues. The surrounding tissues may become swollen, red, and painful as the body tries to fight the infection and repair the damaged area. Additionally, the formation of abscesses can lead to localized inflammation and pain.
Prompt medical attention is essential if a diverticulum bursts, as it can rapidly progress to sepsis and other life-threatening complications. Treatment typically involves antibiotics to control the infection, possible drainage of abscesses, and sometimes surgical intervention to remove the affected portion of the colon and repair the perforation.