🏥 USMLE Exam Prep

A 55-year-old man presents with a 2-day history of left lower quadrant abdominal pain, fever, and nausea. Physical examination reveals localized tenderness in the left lower quadrant without rebound or guarding. Labs show leukocytosis. A CT scan of the abdomen and pelvis reveals colonic diverticula with localized wall thickening and stranding. What is the most appropriate initial management?

A Emergent surgical consultation for colectomy
B Outpatient oral antibiotics and clear liquid diet
C Colonoscopy to assess for malignancy
D Intravenous broad-spectrum antibiotics and NPO status

✓ Correct Answer: Option B

Uncomplicated diverticulitis, characterized by localized inflammation without perforation or abscess, is typically managed with outpatient oral antibiotics and bowel rest (clear liquid diet). IV antibiotics and NPO are for complicated or severely ill patients.

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