appendicitis Flashcards
patho
What is appendicitis?
Inflammation of the appendix, a small, finger-shaped pouch attached to the large intestine.
What are the most common symptoms of appendicitis?
Common symptoms include:
* Sudden pain that begins broadly and then migrates to the right side of the lower abdomen
* Loss of appetite
* Nausea or vomiting
* Fever
* Abdominal bloating
What is the typical progression of pain during appendicitis?
Progresses over 4-6 hours and finishes in the lower right quadrant.
What is McBurney’s Point?
A point on the abdomen that is located at the base of the appendix, used in diagnosing appendicitis.
What does a positive McBurney’s sign indicate?
Pain on palpation at McBurney’s Point.
Describe the Psoas sign.
The patient lies on the left side and extends the right leg backwards; positive if pain in the right lower quadrant (RLQ).
What does a positive Psoas sign indicate?
Pain in the right lower quadrant (RLQ).
Describe the Obturator sign.
The patient lies supine and bends the right leg to a 90* angle; positive if pain in the right lower quadrant (RLQ).
What does a positive Obturator sign indicate?
Pain in the right lower quadrant (RLQ).
Describe Rovsing’s sign.
Pressure on the left lower quadrant (LLQ); positive if pain is felt in the right lower quadrant (RLQ).
What does a positive Rovsing’s sign indicate?
Pain in the right lower quadrant (RLQ) when pressure is applied to the left lower quadrant (LLQ).
Why is early surgical intervention critical in cases of appendicitis?
To prevent the inflamed appendix from rupturing, which can lead to serious complications.
What are potential complications of delayed treatment for appendicitis?
Complications include:
* Peritonitis
* Abscess formation
* Sepsis
What is peritonitis?
Infection of the abdominal cavity lining, which can be life-threatening.
What is abscess formation in the context of appendicitis?
A pocket of pus that can develop in the abdomen, requiring drainage.
What is sepsis?
A severe body-wide infection that can lead to organ failure and death.
What is the mucosal ulceration thought to be related to in appendicitis?
Viral in nature.
What are some functions of the appendix?
Functions include:
* Production of mucus
* Transport system
* Home to gut bacteria
* Good gut bacteria related to mental health.
Fill in the blank: The appendix is a small, finger-shaped pouch attached to the _______.
large intestine.
