Jejunal diverticulosis - A case series and literature review

INTRODUCTION: Scant literature is available regarding in vivo jejunal diverticulosis, in part due to its typically asymptomatic course. This is made more difficult by the difficulty in establishing its diagnosis. This case series examines a number of patients presenting to our hospital with jejunal diverticular disease, and their varying clinical courses. METHODS: A number of cases that had presented to our hospital with jejunal diverticulosis were reviewed retrospectively in keeping with PROCESS guidelines. Their presentations, investigations, and management rationale are discussed in brief. DISCUSSION: The presentation of jejunal diverticulosis is varies significantly along a spectrum, with a number of symptoms similar to other common intra-abdominal pathologies. The imaging modalities of choice are a barium small bowel series, CT scans, and enteroclysis, varying in sensitivity and complexity. Decision making with regards to operative vs. non-operative management is typically in line with that of colonic diverticulosis, though no strict guidelines have been established. CONCLUSION: Jejunal diverticulosis is an uncommon, with scarce data available on the appropriate investigation and management pathways. Its presentation is difficult to differentiate from other intra-abdominal pathology, and its investigations either poorly sensitive or costly and technically challenging. The general consensus on its management is similar to that of colonic diverticula, though more research needs is warranted.