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Escherichia coli septicemia in nonperforated appendicitis
M E Ruff1, I R Friedland, S M Hickey
1Department of Pediatrics, Ireland Army Hospital, Ft Knox, Ky.
Archives of Pediatrics & Adolescent Medicine
|August 1, 1994
Summary
Nonperforated appendicitis may be linked to Escherichia coli septicemia. Blood cultures are infrequently obtained in appendicitis cases, missing potential diagnoses of bloodstream infections.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Surgery
- Infectious Diseases
- Clinical Microbiology
Background:
- Appendicitis is a common surgical emergency in children.
- Septicemia, a serious bloodstream infection, can complicate appendicitis.
- The association between nonperforated appendicitis and septicemia requires further investigation.
Observation:
- A retrospective survey and case reports were analyzed.
- Blood cultures were obtained preoperatively in only 21% of pediatric appendicitis patients.
- Septicemia occurred in 8% of nonperforated appendicitis cases and 17% of perforated cases.
Findings:
- Escherichia coli septicemia can occur with nonperforated appendicitis.
- Blood cultures are underutilized in the management of appendicitis.
- Timely blood cultures are crucial for diagnosing septicemia in appendicitis patients.
Implications:
- Nonperforated appendicitis may be an underrecognized source of E coli septicemia.
- Increased vigilance and utilization of blood cultures are recommended for appendicitis.
- Prospective studies are needed to establish the true incidence of septicemia in appendicitis.