Certified Dietary Manager (CDM) Practice Exam

What is diverticulosis?

1. A condition leading to gastrointestinal bleeding

2. A disease where intestinal walls bulge with small pockets

3. A type of inflammatory bowel disease

4. A syndrome causing severe abdominal pain

The correct answer is: A disease where intestinal walls bulge with small pockets

Diverticulosis is characterized by the formation of small, bulging pouches, known as diverticula, that develop in the walls of the intestines, particularly the colon. This condition often arises due to increased pressure within the intestines, leading to the formation of these pockets. It is generally asymptomatic, meaning many individuals may not exhibit any noticeable symptoms. The significance of diverticulosis lies in its potential to progress to diverticulitis, which is the inflammation or infection of these pouches, causing various symptoms. The other responses refer to different gastrointestinal conditions. A condition leading to gastrointestinal bleeding does not specifically describe diverticulosis, as bleeding could occur from various sources and conditions. Inflammatory bowel disease encompasses disorders like Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis but does not include diverticulosis. A syndrome causing severe abdominal pain might reference conditions like diverticulitis, but again, it does not accurately define diverticulosis, which is often without symptoms.