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Ulcerative colitis of the appendix ('ulcerative appendicitis') mimicking acute appendicitis
R L Barclay1, W T Depew, K K Taguchi
1Department of Medicine, Queen's University, Kingston, Canada.
Summary
Appendiceal involvement in ulcerative colitis is uncommon, often found incidentally. This case highlights a rare instance of ulcerative appendicitis mimicking acute appendicitis in a patient with quiescent ulcerative colitis.
Area of Science:
- Gastroenterology
- Colorectal Surgery
Background:
- Ulcerative colitis (UC) can affect the appendix, typically with diffuse or distal disease.
- Appendiceal involvement in UC is often an incidental finding during proctocolectomy.
Observation:
- A patient with clinically quiescent ulcerative colitis presented with symptoms of acute appendicitis.
- This presentation is rare, as appendiceal involvement usually occurs with active UC.
Findings:
- The patient experienced 'ulcerative appendicitis', a rare form of appendiceal inflammation in UC.
- This condition mimicked typical acute appendicitis.
Implications:
- Highlights the importance of considering ulcerative appendicitis in UC patients presenting with appendicitis-like symptoms.
- Suggests that appendiceal inflammation in UC can occur even during periods of clinical quiescence.
- Underscores the need for careful histopathological examination of the appendix in UC patients.
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