Appendicitis Flashcards
1
Q
What is it?
A
Inflammation of the appendix, usually caused by obstruction of the lumen resulting in invasion of the appendix wall by the gut flora
2
Q
Clinical features
A
Most common between 10 and 20 Central abdominal pain -> RIF Pain on movement/reluctance to move Tenderness in RIF Anorexia, nausea, vomiting, constipation or diarrhoea Low-grade fever, tachycardia Dehydration Guarding
3
Q
Investigations
A
Diagnosis made clinically Investigate if uncertain Urine microscopy and culture Pregnancy test FBC CXR Abdominal US/CT Diagnostic laparoscopy should be considered in young girls (perforation may cause infertility later in life)
4
Q
Treatment
A
Appendectomy
‘Active observation’ in diagnostic doubt
5
Q
Complications
A
Septicaemia Appendix abcess Appendix mass Adhesions (following surgery) Pelvic abscess, subphrenic abscess, paralytic ileus Wound infection
