Acute Appendicitis Flashcards
What is the aetiology of acute appendicitis?
Lymphoid obstruction from lymphoid hyperplasia
What is the pathology of acute appendicitis?
Infection of gut organisms invading the appendix wall
What are the symptoms of acute appendicitis?
- Periumbillical pain
- Anorexia
- Vomiting
What is the pattern of pain in acute appendicitis?
- Starts on the periumbillical area
- Moves to the RIF to Macburney’s point
What are the signs of acute appendicitis?
- Tachycardia
- Tachypnoea
- Fever
- Lying still on initial inspection
- Guarding
- Rovsign’s sign
What is Rovsign’s sign?
Pain in the RIF when the LIF is pressed
What tests do you do in acute appendicitis?
- Examination
- CT if unsure
- Bloods for inflammatory markers (CRP and WCC inc.)
What is the surgical management of AA?
Appendicectomy
What is the pharmacological management of AA
- Painkillers
- Antibiotics
What antibiotics are used in AA?
Metronidazole
Cefuroxime
What other management should be employed in AA?
Fluids
Monitor BP
What are the complications of AA?
Perforation
Generalised peritonitis
Abscess
