Appendicitis
Appendicitis
Appendicitis refers to inflammation of the vermiform appendix. It is a potentially life-threatening condition.
Pathophysiology
Key Causes are pathogens in the appendix (including viral, bacterial, and parasitic) and obstruction of the tube that joins the colon and appendix.
Progression of Appendicitis
Inflammation and swelling impair blood flow to the appendix, which can lead to necrosis with holes and tears in the appendix wall. Stool and infection can leak into the body cavity, causing peritonitis.
Signs/Symptoms
Abdominal pain is the most common symptom of acute appendicitis; pain often begins in the peri-navel area and later, within 12-24 hours, moves to the right lower abdominal quadrant (where we find the appendix) - McBurney's Point.
See more Abdominal Assessments
Diagnostic Imaging
CT scan is a key diagnostic imaging modality to demonstrate an appendix inflammation and enlargement.
See clinical vignettes below for detailed discussion on appendicitis diagnosis.
Gross Pathology
The appendix swells and becomes inflamed. See Swollen Appendix
Management
Acute appendicitis is a medical emergency because the appendix can rupture and lead to widespread infection. Decision has to be made whether to treat conservatively or with surgical removal.
See clinical vignettes below for detailed discussion on appendicitis management.
Related Anatomy
Large intestine anatomy
Aanatomical quadrants
Clinical Diagnosis & Management
Diagnosis
Diagnosis Vignette 1
16-year-old with abdominal pain
Diagnosis Vignette 2
25-year-old male with severe abdominal pain
Management
Management Vignette 1
22-year-old with acute appendicitis
Management Vignette 2 (Advanced)
23-year-old with acute appendicitis
Image Reference
CT Imaging of Appendicitis: wikipedia/commons/1/10/CT_scan_of_the_abdomen_showing_acute_appendicitis.jpg