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Imaging findings of perforative appendicitis: a pictorial review

K L Hopkins1, L E Patrick, T I Ball

  • 1Emory University School of Medicine, Department of Radiology, Children's Healthcare of Atlanta at Egleston, GA 30322, USA. khopkin@emory.edu

Pediatric Radiology
|April 12, 2001
PubMed

Insights

Pediatric appendicitis diagnosis can be challenging, leading to a high rate of perforation. This review highlights key imaging findings for complications like abscesses and peritonitis, aiding early detection in children.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Radiology
  • Gastrointestinal Imaging
  • Abdominal Imaging

Background:

  • Appendicitis is a frequent pediatric surgical emergency.
  • Classic diagnostic signs may be subtle or absent in children, increasing perforation risk.
  • Perforated appendicitis can lead to serious abdominopelvic complications.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review imaging findings of appendicitis complications in children.
  • To emphasize the role of CT and sonography in diagnosing sequelae.
  • To discuss secondary involvement of other organ systems.

Main Methods:

  • Review of imaging findings in pediatric appendicitis.
  • Focus on computed tomography (CT) and ultrasonography (US).
  • Analysis of complications such as abscess, peritonitis, and vascular involvement.

Main Results:

  • Imaging demonstrates characteristic sequelae of perforated appendicitis.
  • CT and sonography are crucial for identifying abdominopelvic abscess, peritonitis, pyelephlebitis, pyelethrombosis, and hepatic abscess.
  • Secondary urinary and gastrointestinal tract involvement is frequently observed.

Conclusions:

  • Radiological imaging, particularly CT and sonography, is essential for diagnosing appendicitis complications in children.
  • Early recognition of imaging findings can guide timely intervention and improve outcomes.
  • Understanding secondary organ involvement aids comprehensive patient management.

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