Final answer:
Diverticulitis refers to the infection and inflammation of the diverticula in the large intestine, which can lead to complications like peritonitis, a severe inflammation of the peritoneum requiring immediate medical attention. A rigid abdomen is a sign of peritonitis.
Step-by-step explanation:
Understanding Diverticulitis and Peritonitis
Diverticulitis is a digestive disease where tiny pouches in the large intestine, known as diverticula, become infected and inflamed, leading to symptoms such as lower abdominal pain, potentially fever, nausea, and changes in bowel habits. These infected pouches are a complication of diverticulosis - a condition where these pouches are present but not inflamed. Complications of diverticulitis can be severe, including peritonitis. Peritonitis is an inflammation of the peritoneum and it is a life-threatening condition that can develop from various causes, including a breach in the alimentary canal's wall such as a ruptured diverticulum.
In the context of diverticulitis, a board-like abdomen indicates that the inflammation has spread, possibly causing peritonitis, which can lead to a surgical emergency. Treatments for non-complicated diverticulitis typically include oral antibiotics and diet modifications, while severe cases may require intravenous antibiotics, hospitalization, or surgery.