My Patient Requests Antibiotics for Diverticulitis: Application of Guidelines in a Case Report

A 60-year-old man with history of diverticular disease presents requesting an antibiotic prescription. Diverticulitis can be uncomplicated or complicated, with treatment in outpatient vs inpatient settings, respectively. Diverticulitis workup may include a thorough history and physical examination, urine urinalysis, C-reactive protein, complete blood count, complete metabolic profile, and computed tomography scanning. Complicated diverticulitis may require intravenous fluids and antibiotics, nothing by mouth, percutaneous abscess drainage, and surgical colon resection. Antibiotic stewardship is paramount to public safety. Avoidance of antibiotics for acute uncomplicated diverticulitis in immunocompetent patients without risks for decompensation is an acceptable practice in select patients.