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[Diagnostic scales for acute appendicitis in children].
J E Atoche1, J Caballero-Alvarado1,2, K Lozano-Peralta1
1School of Medicine, Antenor Orrego Private University, Trujillo, Peru.
Diagnosing acute appendicitis in children is challenging. This review analyzes 22 pediatric appendicitis prediction scales, highlighting their role in guiding surgical decisions.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Emergency Medicine
- Diagnostic Accuracy
- Clinical Decision Support
Background:
- Acute appendicitis is a common pediatric emergency with diagnostic challenges.
- Predictive clinical scales aid in risk stratification for pediatric appendicitis.
- Existing criteria lack universal consensus, necessitating a comprehensive review.
Purpose of the Study:
- To identify and analyze 22 distinct prediction scales for diagnosing acute appendicitis in children.
- To evaluate the utility of these scales in guiding surgical intervention decisions.
- To provide an overview of current diagnostic tools for pediatric appendicitis.
Main Methods:
- A systematic literature search was conducted following PRISMA guidelines.
- 73 articles were selected from 1521 based on inclusion criteria (pediatric population, integrated scales).
- Analysis focused on scales incorporating clinical history, physical examination, laboratory, and imaging data.
Main Results:
- Twenty-two pediatric appendicitis prediction scales were identified and analyzed.
- The Alvarado scale and Tzanakis scale were among the most frequently used worldwide.
- Pediatric-specific scores like PAS and Heidelberg Appendicitis Score (HAS) were noted.
Conclusions:
- Predictive scales are crucial for diagnosing acute appendicitis in children.
- These scales integrate diverse data to inform surgical management.
- Further consensus on optimal scale selection may improve diagnostic accuracy.
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