Appendicitis overview: Difference between revisions
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==Classification== | ==Classification== | ||
Appendicitis may be classified at three levels. As appendicitis often results from appendiceal obstruction leading to necrosis and infection, it may be classified based on the cause of the the obstruction. It also can be classified based on the organism causing this infection, or on whether it is perforating or non-perforating. | |||
==Pathophysiology== | ==Pathophysiology== | ||
==Causes== | ==Causes== | ||
Revision as of 16:17, 14 August 2012
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Appendicitis Microchapters |
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Diagnosis |
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Treatment |
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Case Studies |
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Appendicitis On the Web |
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American Roentgen Ray Society Images of Appendicitis |
Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [1]
Overview
Appendicitis is a condition characterized by inflammation of the appendix. While mild cases may resolve without treatment, most require removal of the inflamed appendix, either by laparotomy or laparoscopy. In untreated cases, mortality is high mainly due to peritonitis and shock. Appendicitis is usually accompanied by abdominal pain, anorexia, fever, and nausea or vomiting
Historical Perspective
Reginald Fitz first described acute appendicitis in 1886, and it has been recognized as one of the most common causes of acute abdominal pain worldwide. The appendectomy has become one of the most commonly performed surgical procedures.
Classification
Appendicitis may be classified at three levels. As appendicitis often results from appendiceal obstruction leading to necrosis and infection, it may be classified based on the cause of the the obstruction. It also can be classified based on the organism causing this infection, or on whether it is perforating or non-perforating.