Related Experiment Video

Updated: Sep 17, 2025

Murine Appendectomy Model of Chronic Colitis Associated Colorectal Cancer by Precise Localization of Caecal Patch
08:51

Murine Appendectomy Model of Chronic Colitis Associated Colorectal Cancer by Precise Localization of Caecal Patch

Published on: August 24, 2019

10.1K

Comparative Study of Appendicitis in Preschool and School-Age Children: Clinical Features and Outcomes

M S Ali1, M A A Mahmud, S Islam

  • 1Dr Mohammad Showkot Ali, Assistant Professor, Department of Pediatric Surgery, Mymensingh Medical College (MMC), Mymensingh, Bangladesh;

Mymensingh Medical Journal : MMJ
|June 30, 2025
PubMed

Insights

Preschool children with appendicitis face delayed diagnosis and severe symptoms, leading to higher perforation rates and complications. Current scoring systems like the Pediatric Appendicitis Score (PAS) and Alvarado Score need refinement for early detection in younger children.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Surgery
  • Clinical Diagnostics
  • Comparative Medicine

Background:

  • Appendicitis is a frequent cause of abdominal pain requiring surgery in children.
  • Distinguishing appendicitis in younger children presents diagnostic challenges.
  • The Pediatric Appendicitis Score (PAS) and Alvarado Score are commonly used diagnostic tools.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To compare clinical features, diagnostic accuracy, and outcomes of appendicitis in preschool-aged versus school-aged children.
  • To evaluate the effectiveness of the Pediatric Appendicitis Score (PAS) and Alvarado Score in different pediatric age groups.
  • To identify factors contributing to delayed diagnosis and increased severity in younger children with appendicitis.

Main Methods:

  • A prospective comparative study involving 386 children diagnosed with appendicitis.
  • Categorization of patients into preschool-aged (<6 years) and school-aged (6-14 years) groups.
  • Analysis of clinical presentation, PAS, Alvarado Score, and patient outcomes including perforation rates and hospital stay.

Main Results:

  • Preschool-aged children exhibited delayed diagnosis, more severe features, and higher perforation rates (58.0%) compared to school-aged children (32.0%).
  • Lower mean PAS and Alvarado scores in preschool children indicated challenges in early recognition.
  • Preschool children experienced higher complication rates and longer hospital stays (mean 7.2 days) versus school-aged children (mean 4.5 days).

Conclusions:

  • Preschool-aged children are at higher risk for severe appendicitis due to atypical presentations and delayed diagnosis.
  • Existing diagnostic scoring systems may require modification to improve early detection in younger pediatric populations.
  • Heightened clinical suspicion and potential refinement of scoring systems are crucial for better appendicitis outcomes in young children.

More Related Videos

Laparoscopic Choledochal Cyst Excision and Roux-en-Y Choledochojejunostomy in Adults04:14

Laparoscopic Choledochal Cyst Excision and Roux-en-Y Choledochojejunostomy in Adults

Published on: February 28, 2025

234

Related Concept Videos

Appendicitis-I: Introduction01:22

Appendicitis-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...
644
Appendicitis-II: Diagnostic Studies and Management01:29

Appendicitis-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...
150
Esophageal Strictures-II: Clinical Features and Management01:26

Esophageal Strictures-II: Clinical Features and Management

Patients with esophageal strictures often experience a range of symptoms. Initially, they may have difficulty swallowing solid foods, which can progress to include liquids. Additional symptoms may involve chest pain or discomfort, regurgitating food and fluids, heartburn, unintentional weight loss, coughing or choking during meals, and hoarseness.
Healthcare providers should gather a comprehensive medical history and conduct a physical examination for diagnosis. If esophageal stricture is...
163
Peptic Ulcer Disease III: Clinical Manifestations and Diagnostic Studies01:28

Peptic Ulcer Disease III: Clinical Manifestations and Diagnostic Studies

Peptic ulcer disease (PUD) presents with diverse symptoms depending on the location and severity of the ulcer. Clinical manifestations of peptic ulcer include dull pain and a burning sensation in the mid-epigastric region.
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.
208