Epityphlitis

Epityphlitis

Article
Digestive Health
Kids' Zone
+1
Contributed byMaulik P. Purohit MD MPHMar 15, 2018

The topic Epityphlitis you are seeking is a synonym, or alternative name, or is closely related to the medical condition Acute Appendicitis.

Quick Summary:

  • Appendicitis is inflammation of the small blind pouch of the bowel called appendix, located at the beginning of the large bowel. The condition can be acute or chronic. Acute Appendicitis is more common in individuals between the ages of 10 and 30 years
  • The inflammation is commonly caused by obstruction of the appendix. The obstruction can be due to various reasons, such as infection, the presence of hardened stool (fecalith), foreign bodies, or due to tumor formation
  • The obstruction of the appendix in Acute Appendicitis causes increased secretion of fluid and mucous from the inner lining of the appendix, which builds pressure inside the appendix. The fluid attracts bacteria, which in turn multiply and build more pressure
  • This causes weakening of the appendix wall and reduces blood supply to the appendix. When blood supply is totally deprived, the wall of the appendix dies and may perforate. Perforation causes flow of bacteria into the abdominal cavity, which is dangerous and can result in a serious illness
  • A low fiber intake and chronic constipation are some risk factors for developing Acute Appendicitis. Additionally, ingestion of foreign objects could potentially cause the condition; children are at a high risk of developing Acute Appendicitis owing to this cause
  • The presence of foreign bodies, inflammatory bowel diseases, infections, tumors/cancers, and hard stools are some known causes of Acute Appendicitis
  • The most typical symptom of the condition is abdominal pain, which becomes more intense on the lower right side of the abdomen. Additionally, there can be nausea, vomiting, fever, constipation or diarrhea, and pain in the general abdominal area. Acute Appendicitis can lead to rupture of the appendix, abscess formation, intestinal blockage, and spread of infection to areas outside the appendix
  • Acute Appendicitis is typically diagnosed by a physical examination, wherein a patient might report tenderness in the region of his/her lower right abdomen, known as the McBurney’s point
  • The treatment options for Acute Appendicitis are determined on the basis of the signs and symptoms and the presence of any complications. For uncomplicated cases, the appendix may be surgically removed by an open appendectomy or laparoscopic procedure
  • Complications might require additional or special treatment, which are determined by a healthcare provider/surgeon on a case-by-case basis. However, when diagnosed properly and treated promptly, the prognosis for Acute Appendicitis is reported to be good

Please find comprehensive information on Acute Appendicitis regarding definition, distribution, risk factors, causes, signs & symptoms, diagnosis, complications, treatment, prevention, prognosis, and additional useful information HERE.

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Maulik P. Purohit MD MPH

Assistant Medical Director, Medical Editorial Board, DoveMed Team

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