Appendicitis

Question 1

What pathogen commonly causes appendicitis?

Answer 1

Escherichia coli (E. coli), though multiple other organisms can also be involved

Question 2

How does appendicitis happen?

Answer 2

Blockage of the appendix (typically by a faecolith) traps bacteria inside and deprives them of food.

Escherichia coli begins searching for food, binding to and attacking appendix lumen cells with cytolysins to explore beyond. Damaged cells release cytokines and trigger inflammatory response.

Question 3

What are the common symptoms of appendicitis?

Answer 3

Lower right quadrant pain, fever, lethargy, lack of appetite

Question 4

How can appendicitis be diagnosed?

Answer 4

Symptomology is usually sufficient but a CT scan can be used to confirm for sure

Question 5

How is appendicitis usually treated?

Answer 5

Laporascopic removal of the appendix followed by antibiotic treatment, fluid management and analgesia

Question 6

If untreated, what complications can follow appendicitis?

Answer 6

The appendix may rupture leading to peritonitis which can subsequently lead to sepsis and death