Comparison of Hinchey classification with leukocyte and CRP values in colonic diverticular disease

Aim: The Hinchey classification helps determine the severity of diverticulitis. We investigated how inflammatory markers like white blood cell (WBC) count and C-reactive protein (CRP) levels vary across Hinchey stages. Material and Methods: We analyzed data from patients surgically treated for colonic diverticular disease between 2018-2023. Data included demographics, disease characteristics, surgical approach, follow-up, and the link between WBC/CRP levels at presentation and Hinchey classification. Results: Our study included 50 patients (mean age 58.46, mostly male). Most diverticula were in the sigmoid colon (88%). WBC (p=.012) and CRP (p=.002) levels differed significantly across Hinchey stages. Pairwise comparisons showed higher CRP levels in Hinchey IV compared to stages I (p=.009) and III (p=.041). WBC levels were significantly higher in stage IV compared to stage II (p=.012). Discussion: Increases in WBC and CRP levels, especially in Hinchey stage IV, highlight a stronger inflammatory response in advanced diverticulitis. These markers could potentially help assess disease severity and guide treatment decisions.