Right Hydronephrosis as a Complication of Acute Appendicitis

Area of Science:

• Gastroenterology
• Urology
• Radiology

Background:

• Acute appendicitis is a common cause of acute abdomen.
• Atypical presentations can lead to diagnostic delays and complications.
• This case highlights appendicitis presenting with urinary symptoms and hydronephrosis.

Purpose of the Study:

• To report a rare case of acute appendicitis causing right hydronephrosis.
• To emphasize the importance of considering atypical appendicitis in differential diagnosis.
• To discuss diagnostic challenges and management strategies for complex appendicitis cases.

Main Methods:

• Case report of a 54-year-old male with atypical appendicitis.
• Diagnostic workup included abdominal computed tomography (CT) revealing right hydronephrosis and pelvic abscess.
• Management involved appendectomy and abscess drainage.

Main Results:

• The patient presented with symptoms suggestive of urinary tract infection, masking appendicitis.
• CT scan confirmed right hydronephrosis and a pelvic abscess.
• Post-surgical intervention (appendectomy and drainage), hydronephrosis resolved completely.

Conclusions:

• Atypical appendicitis can present with urinary symptoms, leading to delayed diagnosis.
• Delayed diagnosis of appendicitis can result in serious complications like hydronephrosis.
• Early recognition and appropriate management are vital to prevent severe outcomes and antibiotic resistance.