Acute appendicitis is a surgical emergency. The classic clinical picture is migrating right lower abdominal pain with nausea, anorexia, and low-grade fever. Atypical presentations are common, especially in children and the elderly. Diagnosis is clinical, supported by ultrasound or CT in unclear cases. Laparoscopic appendicectomy is the standard of care.
Condition
Acute Appendicitis
Also known as: Vermiform appendicitis
Inflammation of the vermiform appendix. The most common cause of acute abdominal pain requiring surgery. Untreated, it progresses to perforation within 24 to 48 hours.
Signs and symptoms
When to suspect acute appendicitis
- Pain starting near the umbilicus, migrating to the right lower abdomen
- Loss of appetite
- Nausea and vomiting
- Low-grade fever
- Tenderness at McBurney's point
- Rebound tenderness
Risk factors
Who is at higher risk
- Age 10 to 30 (peak incidence)
- Family history
- Lymphoid hyperplasia (after viral infection)
- Faecaliths or appendicoliths
- Low-fibre diet
Surgical treatment options
Procedures Dr. Reddy performs for acute appendicitis
Laparoscopic Appendicectomy
Laparoscopic Appendix Surgery (Appendicectomy)
Day care laparoscopic appendix removal by Dr. Dwarakanath Reddy at Apollo Nellore. Three small cuts, faster recovery than open surgery.
Related conditions
Others in the same area of practice.
ICD-10 · K22.0
Achalasia Cardia
A motility disorder of the oesophagus where the lower oesophageal sphincter fails to relax. Causes progressive difficulty swallowing both solids and liquids, regurgitation, and weight loss. Treated definitively by Heller's myotomy or POEM.
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ICD-10 · K80
Gallstones (Cholelithiasis)
Gallstones are hardened deposits of cholesterol or bilirubin in the gallbladder. Most are silent, but symptomatic gallstones cause pain after fatty meals, nausea, and risk of complications like pancreatitis.
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ICD-10 · K21
Gastro-oesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)
Chronic acid reflux from the stomach into the oesophagus. Causes heartburn, regurgitation, and over time, oesophagitis or Barrett's oesophagus. Severe GERD that fails medical therapy is a surgical indication.
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