Related Experiment Video

Updated: Jun 13, 2026

Murine Appendectomy Model of Chronic Colitis Associated Colorectal Cancer by Precise Localization of Caecal Patch
08:51

Murine Appendectomy Model of Chronic Colitis Associated Colorectal Cancer by Precise Localization of Caecal Patch

Published on: August 24, 2019

[Acute appendicitis in very young children]

Saskia J M Kamphuis1, Edward C T H Tan, Karijn Kleizen

  • 1Universitair Medisch Centrum St Radboud, Afd. Heelkunde, Nijmegen, The Netherlands.

Nederlands Tijdschrift Voor Geneeskunde
|May 12, 2010
PubMed

Insights

Appendicitis in young children presents atypically, often mimicking gastroenteritis. Early surgical consultation and physical examination are crucial for timely diagnosis and preventing complications in pediatric appendicitis.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Surgery
  • Gastroenterology

Background:

  • Appendicitis diagnosis in very young children is challenging due to atypical symptoms and communication barriers.
  • Gastroenteritis is a common misdiagnosis for appendicitis in infants and toddlers.

Observation:

  • Two young girls, aged 8 months and 3 years, presented with dehydration, vomiting, and fever.
  • Both patients underwent laparotomy, revealing perforated appendices despite initial misdiagnoses.

Findings:

  • Appendicitis can manifest with symptoms similar to gastroenteritis in children under three.
  • A perforated appendix was confirmed in both pediatric patients, highlighting diagnostic difficulties.

Implications:

  • Physicians must maintain a high index of suspicion for appendicitis in young children.
  • A thorough physical examination and prompt surgical consultation are vital for accurate and timely diagnosis of pediatric appendicitis.
  • The Paediatric Appendicitis Score (PAS) is a useful adjunct, but clinical judgment remains paramount.

More Related Videos

Robot-Assisted Laparoscopic Splenectomy In Children: A Case Report with Literature Review05:06

Robot-Assisted Laparoscopic Splenectomy In Children: A Case Report with Literature Review

Published on: March 27, 2026

Related Concept Videos

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...
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-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...
Pyloric Obstruction01:11

Pyloric Obstruction

Pyloric obstruction, also referred to as gastric outlet obstruction, is a condition characterized by narrowing or blockage at the pylorus—the muscular valve regulating the flow of stomach contents into the duodenum. When this passage becomes impaired, the stomach cannot effectively empty its contents into the small intestine. This disruption leads to a range of gastrointestinal symptoms, including early satiety, bloating, epigastric pain, postprandial nausea, persistent vomiting, and...
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...
Acute Pancreatitis I: Introduction01:25

Acute Pancreatitis I: Introduction

Acute pancreatitis is the sudden inflammation of the pancreas caused by the early activation of digestive enzymes, leading to the autodigestion of pancreatic tissue. This results in local inflammation and, in severe cases, systemic complications.EtiologyUnderstanding the underlying causes is crucial, as identifying the etiology guides treatment and anticipates complications. Acute pancreatitis can be triggered by various factors, typically grouped into the following clinical categories.Biliary...