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Increased morbidity of appendicitis with advancing age
M G Franz1, J Norman, P J Fabri
1Department of Surgery, University of South Florida College of Medicine, Tampa 33612.
The American Surgeon
|January 1, 1995
Summary
Elderly patients with appendicitis are more likely to develop severe complications like perforation and abscesses. Prompt diagnosis and intervention are crucial for reducing morbidity and mortality in older adults with appendicitis.
Area of Science:
- Geriatric Medicine
- Surgical Pathology
- Public Health
Background:
- Early diagnosis of acute appendicitis is critical to prevent complications.
- Aging populations present unique challenges for diagnosing appendicitis in older adults.
- Recent severe complications in elderly patients prompted this review.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the differences in appendicitis presentation and outcomes across age groups.
- To identify specific risks associated with appendicitis in elderly male veterans.
Main Methods:
- Review of 100 consecutive male appendicitis admissions at a tertiary Veterans Administration hospital.
- Patients categorized into three age groups: <50, 50-70, and >70 years.
- Operative findings classified as simple, ruptured/perforated, or abscess-associated appendicitis.
Main Results:
- Patients <50 years old most commonly had simple acute appendicitis (28/37).
- Patients aged 50-70 were more likely to have perforated appendicitis or abscess (16/18).
- Patients >70 years old had the highest incidence of appendicitis with intra-abdominal abscess (10/19) and mortality (6/8 deaths).
Conclusions:
- Appendicitis progresses to more severe forms in older male veterans.
- Intra-abdominal abscess and mortality are significantly higher in patients over 70.
- Age is a critical factor influencing appendicitis severity and outcomes.