Related Experiment Video

Updated: Jun 6, 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

Insights into epiploic appendagitis

Wolfgang J Schnedl1, Robert Krause, Erwin Tafeit

  • 1General Practice for General Internal Medicine, Haupstrasse 5, A-8940 Liezen, Austria. w.schnedl@dr-schnedl.at

Nature Reviews. Gastroenterology & Hepatology
|November 25, 2010
PubMed

Insights

Epiploic appendagitis, a rare cause of abdominal pain, is easily diagnosed with imaging. Conservative management is often successful, avoiding unnecessary surgery and healthcare costs.

Area of Science:

  • Gastroenterology
  • Radiology
  • Abdominal Surgery

Background:

  • Epiploic appendagitis is an uncommon cause of acute abdominal pain.
  • It can mimic other intra-abdominal conditions like diverticulitis or appendicitis.
  • Accurate diagnosis is crucial for appropriate management.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review the clinical findings, pathophysiology, diagnosis, and treatment of epiploic appendagitis.
  • To emphasize the importance of imaging in diagnosis and management.
  • To highlight the benefits of conservative treatment.

Main Methods:

  • Review of existing literature on epiploic appendagitis.
  • Discussion of diagnostic imaging modalities (CT, ultrasonography).
  • Analysis of treatment strategies, including conservative and surgical options.

Main Results:

  • Epiploic appendagitis is readily diagnosed using CT or ultrasonography.
  • Most cases are successfully treated conservatively, often without surgery.
  • Symptoms typically resolve within days, with or without treatment.

Conclusions:

  • Awareness of epiploic appendagitis is essential for clinicians to avoid misdiagnosis.
  • Imaging-guided conservative management is effective and cost-efficient.
  • Unnecessary surgical interventions can be avoided with prompt and accurate diagnosis.

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...
Peptic Ulcer Disease III: Clinical Manifestations and Diagnostic Studies01:28

Peptic Ulcer Disease III: Clinical Manifestations and Diagnostic Studies

Peptic ulcer disease (PUD) presents with diverse symptoms depending on the location and severity of the ulcer. Clinical manifestations of peptic ulcer include dull pain and a burning sensation in the mid-epigastric region.
Few clinical manifestations differentiate gastric ulcers from duodenal ulcers. Distinctions in the location, timing, and pain relief are crucial for healthcare providers in differentiating between gastric and duodenal ulcers during clinical assessments.
Inflammatory Bowel Disease I: Introduction01:26

Inflammatory Bowel Disease I: Introduction

Inflammatory bowel disease is a group of chronic disorders marked by recurrent inflammation of the gastrointestinal tract due to an abnormal immune response against gut microflora. This leads to tissue damage. The two main forms are Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis.Crohn’s DiseaseCrohn’s disease is a relapsing inflammatory disorder that can affect any part of the GI tract, from the mouth to the anus. It involves all layers of the bowel wall (transmural) and shows “skip lesions” in which...
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...