A patient complains to his physician of chronic constipation. On the instruction of his physician, the patient increases his dietary fiber, but his constipation persists. The physician refers the patient to a gastroenterologist. Colonoscopy reveals over fifty 2-3 mm openings into the bowel mucosa. No bleeding is seen, and the intervening mucosa appears normal. Which of the following is the most likely diagnosis?

## Core Concept
The patient's symptoms of chronic constipation despite increasing dietary fiber intake, and the colonoscopy findings of multiple small openings into the bowel mucosa, suggest a condition affecting the bowel wall. This condition is likely related to an abnormality in the intestinal wall that could be causing the constipation.

## Why the Correct Answer is Right
The description provided by the colonoscopy findings of over fifty 2-3 mm openings into the bowel mucosa without bleeding and with normal intervening mucosa is characteristic of **diverticulosis**. Diverticulosis is a condition where small, bulging pouches (diverticula) develop in the digestive tract, most commonly in the colon (large intestine). These diverticula are usually 2-3 mm in size and can be multiple. The presence of these diverticula can lead to constipation, possibly due to altered bowel motility and sensitivity. The fact that there's no bleeding and the mucosa appears normal between the diverticula supports this diagnosis, as diverticulosis often does not present with bleeding unless complicated by diverticulitis or another condition.

## Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect
- **Option A:** Not provided, but presumably incorrect based on the context.
- **Option B:** Not provided, but presumably incorrect based on the context.
- **Option C:** Not provided, but presumably incorrect based on the context.

## Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact
A key point to remember is that **diverticulosis** is often asymptomatic but can cause constipation, and it is more common in older adults. The condition is associated with a low-fiber diet and increased intraluminal pressure. A high-fiber diet can help manage symptoms, but in cases like this where symptoms persist, medical intervention may be necessary.

## Correct Answer Line
**Correct Answer: D. Diverticulosis.**

✓ Correct Answer: C. Diveiculosis