Appendicitis Flashcards
1
Q
what is an appendicitis
A
acute inflammation of the appendix wall
2
Q
is it common for a younger person to get an appendicitis
A
yes. usually 5-30 years is most common peaking at ages 20-30
3
Q
Etiology
A
Idiopathic
fecalith (obstructs cecum)
twisted appendix
4
Q
Patho
A
appendix lumen obstruction via block/twist causes the drainage in the cecum to be blocked = increased intraluminal pressure
this luminal pressure exceeds venous pressure causing venous stasis = ischemia = necrosis = bacterial invasion
5
Q
what is a complication that may arise
A
peritonitis if appendix wall perforates
6
Q
Manifestations
A
acute epigastric/ periumbilical pain pain increase then colicky pain (spasmodic) over 12hrs localizes to the LRQ *Mcburneys point nausea fever leukocytosis
7
Q
what is the area specific to the pain called
A
mcburneys point
8
Q
Diagnosis
A
history and physical exams
US
CT
9
Q
Treatment
A
IV antibiotics pain management anti inflammatories IV fluid surgery to remove within 24-48hrs
