Once suspected, the diagnosis of diverticular disease can be confirmed by a variety of tests.

How is diverticulitis diagnosed?

Diverticula can be seen via barium x-ray (barium enema). The diverticula are seen as barium filled pouches protruding from the colon wall. Direct visualization of the colon can be achieved through flexible sigmoidoscopy or colonoscopy. In patients suspected of having a diverticular abscess causing persistent pain and fever, ultrasound and CT scan of the abdomen and pelvis can be done to detect collections of pus.