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A curious cause of appendicitis
Emma Patricia Stewart-Parker1, Mustafa Atta2, Sudeendra Doddi1
1Department of General Surgery, Kings College Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, Princess Royal University Hospital, Greater London, UK.
Insights
A pediatric appendicitis case complicated by Salmonella enteritidis infection required multiple interventions. Prompt bacterial identification led to targeted antibiotic therapy and improved patient outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Surgery
- Infectious Diseases
- Gastroenterology
Background:
- Appendicitis is a common surgical emergency in children.
- Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial to prevent complications.
Observation:
- A 10-year-old boy initially presented with symptoms suggestive of gastroenteritis.
- He later developed signs of acute appendicitis, confirmed during laparoscopic appendicectomy.
- Post-operative complications arose, necessitating further surgical intervention.
Findings:
- A gangrenous appendix with extensive pus collection was identified.
- Culture of peritoneal pus revealed Salmonella enteritidis.
- Targeted antibiotic treatment based on bacterial identification led to recovery.
Implications:
- This case highlights the importance of considering atypical pathogens in recurrent or complicated appendicitis.
- Accurate microbiological diagnosis is critical for effective management of intra-abdominal infections.
- Multidisciplinary care involving surgery and infectious diseases is essential for optimal pediatric surgical outcomes.
Abstract:
A previously healthy 10-year-old boy presented to the emergency department with central abdominal pain, loose stool and vomiting. He was diagnosed with gastroenteritis, but was well enough to be discharged. The next day he reattended with ongoing diarrhoea and vomiting, with the pain now localised to the right iliac fossa (RIF). Acute appendicitis was suspected, and he was taken for laparoscopic appendicectomy. At surgery, a gangrenous appendix was found, with pus extending from the pelvis up to the liver. The appendix was excised and thorough peritoneal washout performed. Postoperatively, he received 48 hours of intravenous antibiotics and was discharged home. Unfortunately the boy presented again 11 days later with right lower quadrant pain and fever. Ultrasound revealed a collection in the RIF, and he returned to theatre for washout. His recovery was slow until the peritoneal pus sent for bacterial culture grew Salmonella enteritidis, identification of which facilitated appropriate antibiotic treatment.
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