Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 12, 2025

Author Spotlight: Using Point-of-Care Ultrasound for Comprehensive Evaluation of the Abdominal Aorta
Published on: September 8, 2023
An FUO patient diagnosed as appendicitis: a case report
Shupeng Song1, Jinqiu Zhao1, Yingzi Tang2
1Department of Infectious Disease, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China.
Atypical appendicitis can present as fever of unknown origin, challenging diagnosis. Early surgical intervention is crucial for resolving persistent fever and improving patient outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Infectious Diseases
- Surgical Pathology
Background:
- Fever of unknown origin (FUO) diagnosis is complex, often linked to infectious diseases.
- Identifying pathogens and infection sites in FUO cases can be challenging.
Observation:
- A patient presented with fever, nausea, and anorexia, but no abdominal pain or tenderness.
- Initial imaging studies for appendicitis were inconclusive, despite one ultrasound suggesting the possibility.
- The patient's fever persisted despite anti-infective treatment.
Findings:
- Laparoscopic appendectomy revealed confirmed appendicitis.
- Post-surgery, the patient's temperature and infectious markers normalized.
Implications:
- Atypical appendicitis can be misdiagnosed as FUO due to non-specific symptoms and negative imaging.
- This case highlights the importance of considering appendicitis in FUO, even with atypical presentations.
- Timely surgical management of appendicitis is vital for resolving FUO and reducing patient burden.
Related Concept Videos
Appendicitis-II: Diagnostic Studies and Management
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...
Appendicitis-I: Introduction
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...
Peptic Ulcer Disease III: Clinical Manifestations and Diagnostic Studies
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.
Assessment of the Abdomen I: Inspection and Auscultation
The abdominal examination is a cornerstone of clinical medicine, serving as a critical tool in diagnosing various gastrointestinal (GI) diseases. It involves a systematic approach that includes inspection and auscultation, each with distinct yet complementary roles in assessing the abdomen. This article will delve into these two primary methods healthcare professionals use to examine the abdomen.
Inspection of the Abdomen
The first step in any abdominal examination is inspection....
Assessment of the Rectum and Anus
Rectal Inspection
Begin by inspecting the perianal and anal areas for color, texture, rashes,...
Chronic Bowel Disorders: Introduction
Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) is a common disorder affecting the gastrointestinal tract. The distinctive feature is recurrent abdominal pain associated with altered bowel movements, manifesting as constipation, diarrhea, or fluctuating between both. The...

