Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 14, 2026
08:51
Murine Appendectomy Model of Chronic Colitis Associated Colorectal Cancer by Precise Localization of Caecal Patch
Published on: August 24, 2019
Simultaneous acute appendicitis and pseudomembranous colitis in a pediatric patient
Steven R Vidrine1, Chandler Cortina, Marissa Black
1Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center, Shreveport School of Medicine, Shreveport, USA.
Summary
This study reports the first pediatric case of acute appendicitis occurring alongside pseudomembranous colitis (PMC). The findings suggest a potential association between these conditions in children, which may be under-diagnosed.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Surgery
- Gastroenterology
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Acute appendicitis is a frequent pediatric surgical emergency.
- Pseudomembranous colitis (PMC), caused by Clostridum difficile, is increasingly diagnosed in children, particularly post-antibiotic therapy or with Hirschsprung's disease.
- Previous literature documented only three adult cases of appendicitis associated with PMC.
Observation:
- A 16-year-old female presented with acute appendicitis while undergoing treatment for suspected PMC.
- This case represents the first documented instance of this dual pathology in a pediatric patient.
Findings:
- The concurrent presentation suggests a potential association between acute appendicitis and PMC in the pediatric population.
- This association may not always be clinically obvious, leading to under-diagnosis and under-reporting.
Implications:
- Highlights the need for increased clinical awareness of potential co-occurrence of appendicitis and PMC in pediatric patients.
- Suggests that diagnostic protocols may need re-evaluation to identify this combined condition more effectively.
- Emphasizes the importance of reporting such cases to better understand the epidemiology and clinical significance of this association.
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...
01:27Inflammatory Bowel Disease I: Ulcerative Colitis
Introduction
Inflammatory bowel disease, or IBD, encompasses a group of disorders characterized by chronic inflammation or ulceration of the gastrointestinal tract.
Risk Factors
The exact cause of IBD remains unclear, although it is believed to be due to a mix of genetic, environmental, microbial, and immune factors. Genetic factors are significant in determining susceptibility to IBD, with family history being a critical risk factor. Individuals with a first-degree relative who has IBD are at...
Inflammatory bowel disease, or IBD, encompasses a group of disorders characterized by chronic inflammation or ulceration of the gastrointestinal tract.
Risk Factors
The exact cause of IBD remains unclear, although it is believed to be due to a mix of genetic, environmental, microbial, and immune factors. Genetic factors are significant in determining susceptibility to IBD, with family history being a critical risk factor. Individuals with a first-degree relative who has IBD are at...
01:26Inflammatory 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...