Analysis of the Role of the Microbiota in Diverticular Disease

A single-center, prospective observational cohort study conducted at the University Hospital of Navarra. The primary objective is to expand knowledge of diverticular disease and its pathological variants, as well as the influence of the microbiota in our environment, both clinically and molecularly; to describe the clinical and pathological characteristics of patients with diverticulosis and acute diverticulitis; to analyze any differences in the microbiota; and to identify the risk factors and groups associated with diverticular disease in order to establish the best strategies for prevention and treatment.

Inclusion Criteria: * Age 18 or older. * Signing of the informed consent form. * Assignment to one of the study groups mentioned above. Exclusion Criteria: * An episode of acute diverticulitis located in the right colon or transverse colon. * Antibiotic treatment within the six weeks prior to the episode (except for antibiotics started in the emergency department or within 24 hours prior to sample collection). * Mechanical bowel preparation within the three weeks prior to sample collection. * Diagnosis of colorectal cancer. * Diagnosis of inflammatory bowel disease. * Failure to sign the informed consent form.