Related Experiment Video

Updated: Oct 19, 2026

Retroperitoneal Laparoscopic Debridement and Drainage for Pancreatic Abscess
03:42

Retroperitoneal Laparoscopic Debridement and Drainage for Pancreatic Abscess

Published on: March 15, 2024

[Subphrenic abscess due to ectopic appendicitis]

J N Di Marco1, A Poujol, Y Rimet

  • 1Service de pédiatrie, centre hospitalier du Pays d'Aix, Aix-en-Provence, France.

Archives De Pediatrie : Organe Officiel De La Societe Francaise De Pediatrie
|October 16, 1999
PubMed

Insights

Idiopathic subphrenic abscesses are rare in children. Ectopic appendicitis is a key cause, often requiring surgical intervention after initial drainage.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Surgery
  • Gastroenterology
  • Radiology

Background:

  • Subphrenic abscesses are uncommon pediatric conditions.
  • Initial diagnosis often relies on chest X-rays.
  • Percutaneous drainage is a common initial treatment.

Observation:

  • A 12-year-old boy presented with symptoms suggestive of a pulmonary abscess.
  • Imaging studies including chest X-ray, ultrasonography, and CT confirmed a right subphrenic abscess.
  • The abscess was successfully drained percutaneously.

Findings:

  • Subsequent surgery revealed an ectopic appendiceal perforation as the underlying cause.
  • Appendicitis is identified as the primary etiology for subphrenic suppurations in children.
  • Ectopic appendicitis is a significant predisposing factor.

Implications:

  • Highlights the importance of considering appendicitis, particularly ectopic presentations, in pediatric subphrenic abscesses.
  • Suggests that surgical exploration may be necessary when the etiology remains unclear after initial drainage.
  • Emphasizes the role of advanced imaging in diagnosing these complex cases.
Abstract

More Related Videos

Posterior Approach for Debridement of the Psoas Abscess06:02

Posterior Approach for Debridement of the Psoas Abscess

Published on: March 2, 2020

Related Concept Videos

Appendicitis01:19

Appendicitis

Appendicitis is an acute inflammatory condition of the vermiform appendix, most commonly caused by obstruction of its lumen. The appendix is a narrow, blind-ended pouch that extends from the cecum, making it particularly prone to obstruction. Causes include fecaliths, lymphoid hyperplasia (often after viral infections), parasites, tumors, or foreign bodies. This obstruction initiates a cascade of pathological changes.Luminal Obstruction and Early InflammationAfter obstruction, normal mucosal...
Appendicitis-I: Introduction01:22

Appendicitis-I: Introduction

The appendix, a small, narrow, blind tube extending from the inferior part of the cecum, is widely regarded as a vestigial organ, having lost much of its original function through evolution. Despite its diminished role, the appendix can become inflamed, a condition known as appendicitis.
Etiology: Appendicitis can arise from various causes, primarily rooted in the obstruction of the appendix lumen. Factors contributing to this obstruction include fecal accumulation, lymphoid hyperplasia and, in...
Appendicitis-II: Diagnostic Studies and Management01:29

Appendicitis-II: Diagnostic Studies and Management

Diagnosing and managing appendicitis requires a structured and comprehensive approach that spans from initial assessment to postoperative care. Here is an overview of the process:
Diagnosing Appendicitis
It requires a multifaceted approach, starting with a detailed physical examination to pinpoint the location and nature of the pain and identify any associated symptoms. Laboratory tests play a crucial role. A complete Blood Count (CBC) typically reveals leukocytosis (an increased number of...
Cholecystitis01:20

Cholecystitis

Cholecystitis is inflammation of the gallbladder, most commonly caused by obstruction of the cystic duct. This blockage prevents bile from draining, leading to gallbladder distension, inflammation, and potentially serious complications. This condition may present acutely or chronically and can happen with or without gallstones.EtiologyAbout 95% of cholecystitis cases are calculous, caused by gallstones blocking the cystic duct, leading to bile accumulation and inflammation of the gallbladder...
Endoscopic Procedures V: ERCP01:26

Endoscopic Procedures V: ERCP

Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) is a diagnostic procedure that combines endoscopy and fluoroscopy to diagnose and treat conditions related to the bile ducts, pancreatic ducts, and gallbladder. This procedure is beneficial for identifying and addressing blockages, gallstones, strictures, and tumors within the biliary or pancreatic systems. ERCP is both diagnostic and therapeutic, offering the ability to visualize and treat identified problems in one session.
Patient...
Intestinal Obstruction II: Pathophysiology01:07

Intestinal Obstruction II: Pathophysiology

Intestinal obstruction triggers a series of physiological responses, starting with gas and fluid accumulation in the bowel segment proximal to the obstruction, leading to distension. This distended intestine compresses the diaphragm, hindering lung expansion and potentially leading to reduced respiratory effort, atelectasis, and pneumonia.To overcome the blockage, the gut intensifies contractions, causing colicky abdominal pain, nausea, and vomiting, which reduces fluid and food intake and...