Introduction and objective:
Diverticula of the colon are defined as pouch-like protrusions of the intestinal wall through the muscular layer at sites of reduced resistance. Diverticula of the sigmoid colon are one of the most common pathologies of the large intestine detected during colonoscopy. In Western countries, the prevalence of diverticula is increasing. Over time, inflammation and bleeding associated with the presence of diverticula may occur. The aim of the study is to present the current state of knowledge on the epidemiology, diagnosis, and treatment methods of diverticular disease of the large intestine.

Review methods:
The literature review was conducted using the PubMed database. Phrases were searched for in English: „diverticular disease”, „diverticula”, „diverticula treatment” and „diverticula etiology”.

Brief description of the state of knowledge:
Risk factors for the occurrence of diverticula of the large intestine include, among others, a low-fibre diet, frequent alcohol consumption, smoking, and obesity. The presence of symptoms such as bloating, abdominal pain, change in bowel habits, bleeding, acute inflammation, or perforation of diverticula is referred to as diverticular disease. The diagnosis of diverticula of the large intestine is most commonly based on computed tomography of the abdomen and pelvis and colonoscopy. The treatment of symptomatic diverticula of the colon is challenging and includes pharmacotherapy, dietary modifications, and in some cases, endoscopic or surgical treatment.

Summary:
Diverticular disease of the large intestine poses a significant and growing clinical problem. The selection of appropriate diagnostic and treatment techniques, ensuring patient safety, depends on many factors and presents a major challenge for the treating team.