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Appendico-colic fistula complicating appendicitis in cystic fibrosis

G J Morris-Stiff1, K A Islam

  • 1Department of HPB Surgery, Cleveland Clinic Foundation, Cleveland, Ohio, USA.

BMJ Case Reports
|July 11, 2012
PubMed

Insights

Cystic fibrosis patients can develop appendicitis complications. This case is the first to report an isolated appendico-colic fistula as a complication in a boy with cystic fibrosis.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Surgery
  • Gastroenterology
  • Genetics

Background:

  • Cystic fibrosis (CF) is a genetic disorder affecting multiple organs.
  • Appendicitis complications like perforation and abscess are known in CF patients.
  • However, specific fistula formation is rarely documented.

Observation:

  • A pediatric case presented with symptoms suggestive of appendicitis.
  • The patient had a confirmed diagnosis of cystic fibrosis.
  • Imaging and surgical findings revealed an unusual complication.

Findings:

  • The patient experienced appendicitis with delayed presentation.
  • Surgical exploration confirmed an isolated appendico-colic fistula.
  • This represents a novel complication in the context of cystic fibrosis.

Implications:

  • Highlights the diverse gastrointestinal manifestations of cystic fibrosis.
  • Suggests increased vigilance for atypical appendicitis complications in CF patients.
  • May inform surgical and management strategies for CF-related appendicitis.

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