Which of the following complications is most associated with diverticulitis?

The most associated complication of diverticulitis is perforation. Diverticulitis occurs when diverticula, which are small pouches that can form in the wall of the colon, become inflamed or infected. If this inflammation becomes severe, it can lead to the weakening of the colonic wall, potentially causing it to perforate or rupture.

A perforation can result in the leakage of intestinal contents into the abdominal cavity, leading to peritonitis, an acute and serious condition that requires prompt surgical intervention. This complication is particularly important to recognize because it is associated with significant morbidity and can be life-threatening if not managed quickly.

While other conditions such as peptic ulcers and gallbladder stones are associated with gastrointestinal issues, they are not direct complications of diverticulitis. Appendicitis is a separate condition involving the inflammation of the appendix, and while it may present with similar abdominal symptoms, it is unrelated to diverticulitis itself. Therefore, perforation is the complication most closely linked with diverticulitis, underscoring the importance of recognizing and treating this condition effectively to prevent such severe outcomes.