NR511 / NR 511 MIDTERM (LATEST 2026/2027): DIFFERENTIAL DIAGNOSIS & PRIMARY CARE PRACTICUM

If corticosteroid therapy fails to help treat IBD, what is the next line of drugs?

Immunomodulators such as Azathioprine, Methotrexate, and 6-mercaptopurine (6-

MP). Note: These drugs cause bone marrow suppression which increased the risk 

of infection.

What medications are often use for moderate to severe IBD?

Anti-TNF therapy or "Biologics" including Remicade (infliximab), Humira 

(adalimumab), and Entyvio (vedolizumab).

What disease is present when inflammatory changes within diverticula mucosa of 

the intestines arises?

Diverticular Disease

What does diverticular disease, or diverticulosis, look like upon examination of the 

bowels?

Small outpouchings or sacs in the wall of the colon are present, usually at the 

location of weakened areas of the bowel wall where arterial vessels perforate the 

colon.

T of F: Diverticulosis is typically asymptomatic until the diverticula become 

inflamed and/or bleed.

True

Although diverticula con occur anywhere in the intestines, where is the most 

common place for them to arise?

Descending and sigmoid colon

How does diverticulosis differ from diverticulitis?

The latter occurs when the former becomes inflamed and subsequently has the 

potential to rupture

Where does acute diverticulitis usually show up during an abdominal exam?

LLQ abdominal pain and tenderness

If a perforation of a diverticula occurs and is not isolated, signs and symptoms of 

_________________ may be present.

Peritonitis...think rebound tenderness

What are common signs and symptoms of diverticulitis?

1. LLQ pain/tenderness

2. Fever

3. Change in bowel habits (usually diarrhea)

4. N/V

T or F: Occult blood can usually be found in the presence of diverticulitis.

True