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Appendicitis

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: Introduction

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 Management

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...

Intestinal Obstruction II: Pathophysiology

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...

Intestinal Obstruction I: Introduction

Intestinal Obstruction I: Introduction

Intestinal obstruction is a partial or complete blockage of the small or large intestine that disrupts the normal flow of intestinal contents through the lumen. This interruption impairs digestion, absorption, and fluid balance, and may lead to serious complications if not treated promptly.Mechanical ObstructionMechanical obstruction occurs when a physical blockage prevents intestinal contents from passing, arising from within the lumen or the bowel wall, or from external compression.Adhesions,...

Inflammatory Bowel Disease II: Crohn's Disease

Inflammatory Bowel Disease II: Crohn's Disease

Introduction
Inflammatory bowel disease, commonly known as IBD, refers to a collection of disorders that lead to persistent inflammation of the gastrointestinal tract. The two types of IBD are ulcerative colitis, which impacts the colon, and Crohn's disease, which can involve any part of the gastrointestinal segment.
Crohn's disease
Crohn's disease is a chronic, systemic inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) that predominantly affects the gastrointestinal tract. It is marked by transmural...

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Updated: Jun 17, 2026

Murine Ileocolic Bowel Resection with Primary Anastomosis

Murine Ileocolic Bowel Resection with Primary Anastomosis

Published on: October 29, 2014

Acute appendicitis presenting as small bowel obstruction: two case reports.

Sanjay Harrison¹, Kamal Mahawar, Dougal Brown

¹Department of General Surgery, Sunderland Royal Hospital, Kayll Road, Sunderland SR4 7TP, UK.

|January 12, 2010

Summary

This summary is machine-generated.

Diagnosing acute appendicitis can be challenging when it mimics small bowel obstruction. This report highlights successful surgical treatment for two elderly patients with this rare presentation.

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Area of Science:

Gastroenterology
Surgical Case Reports

Background:

Acute appendicitis is a frequent surgical diagnosis.
Appendicitis can present atypically, mimicking small bowel obstruction, leading to diagnostic delays.

Purpose of the Study:

To report two cases of elderly patients with appendicitis presenting as small bowel obstruction.
To emphasize the importance of considering appendicitis in elderly patients with small bowel obstruction and elevated inflammatory markers.

Main Methods:

Case series involving two elderly patients.
Diagnostic workup included assessment for small bowel obstruction and inflammatory markers.
Surgical intervention via laparotomy, adhesiolysis, and appendicectomy.

Main Results:

Both patients presented with symptoms of small bowel obstruction and elevated inflammatory markers.
Surgical treatment involving laparotomy, adhesiolysis, and appendicectomy was successful for both cases.
Patients experienced good recovery post-operatively.

Conclusions:

Appendicitis should be considered in the differential diagnosis of small bowel obstruction in the elderly.
Prompt surgical intervention can lead to favorable outcomes even in atypical presentations.