Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jul 18, 2026
08:51
Murine Appendectomy Model of Chronic Colitis Associated Colorectal Cancer by Precise Localization of Caecal Patch
Published on: August 24, 2019
Serosal appendicitis: incidence, causes and clinical significance
Nagarajan Pranesh1, Venkitaraman Sathya, Karl S Mainprize
1Department of Surgery, James Paget General Hospital, Gorleston, Great Yarmouth, Norfolk NR31 6LA, UK. npranesh@hotmail.com
Postgraduate Medical Journal
|December 7, 2006
Summary
Serosal appendicitis, an inflammation on the appendix surface, requires no further investigation after appendectomy. However, many patients may undergo unnecessary appendectomies, highlighting a need for better diagnostic methods.
Area of Science:
- Gastroenterology
- Pathology
- Surgical Pathology
Background:
- Serosal appendicitis is a histopathological finding indicating inflammation on the appendix surface originating from an extra-appendiceal source.
- It is often mistaken for primary appendicitis preoperatively.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review pathology database for cases of serosal appendicitis with preoperative appendicitis diagnosis.
- To compare outcomes between patients with known versus unknown causes of serosal appendicitis.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective review of a district general hospital's pathology database.
- Case-note analysis comparing patient groups based on the cause of serosal appendicitis.
- Assessment of postoperative complications, referrals, admissions, and procedures.
Main Results:
- The incidence of serosal appendicitis was 0.01% (19/1379), predominantly affecting women (17/19).
- The cause was confirmed in 8 patients and unknown in 11; groups were comparable in age, sex, and follow-up.
- No significant differences in outcomes were observed between the groups.
Conclusions:
- No further investigations are needed for serosal appendicitis post-appendectomy.
- The study suggests a proportion of patients may undergo unnecessary appendectomies.
- A small percentage of patients received preoperative ultrasound or diagnostic laparoscopy, indicating potential for improved diagnostic strategies.
Related Concept Videos
01:19Appendicitis
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...
01:22Appendicitis-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...
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...
01:29Appendicitis-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...
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...
01:27Diverticular Disease of the Colon
Diverticular disease involves the formation of diverticula—small sac-like outpouchings of the colonic wall—and their complications. It most commonly affects the sigmoid colon due to higher intraluminal pressure and structural vulnerability. It results from structural weakness and increased pressure in the colon, producing pseudodiverticula that may remain silent or progress to inflammation and serious complications.Structure of DiverticulaIn diverticulosis, these outpouchings are...
01:28Esophageal Perforation-II: Clinical Manifestations and Management
Esophageal perforations manifest in various clinical forms, influenced by factors such as the perforation's cause and location (cervical, intrathoracic, or intra-abdominal), the extent of contamination, and potential injury to adjacent mediastinal structures. The timing between the perforation occurrence and treatment initiation also affects the clinical presentation.
Clinical Manifestations:
Clinical Manifestations:
01:22Esophageal Perforation-I: Introduction
Esophageal perforation is a severe medical condition characterized by a breach in the integrity of the esophageal wall. This breach can occur due to various factors such as trauma, medical procedures, or underlying diseases. When the esophageal wall is compromised, it allows food, fluids, and digestive juices into the chest cavity or adjacent structures, leading to potential complications and health risks.
The location of esophageal perforation can vary, occurring anywhere along the esophagus.
The location of esophageal perforation can vary, occurring anywhere along the esophagus.