Appendicitis
Picture this: A patient has new and intense pain in the right lower quadrant with associated fever, nausea and/or vomiting. This characteristic patient presentation is classic for appendicitis, according to Johns Hopkins Medicine.
The appendix is a small tubular structure sitting on the colon. This tube connects directly with the cecum, or the first part of the colon. Thus, colon bacteria can live within the organ, causing no problems. However, if the appendix becomes inflamed, the tube may seal, allowing the resident bacteria to grow unchecked. This can lead to infection, the creation of an abscess, and even a life-threatening perforation of the appendix. Ironically, perforation of the appendix can actually lead to a temporary resolution of symptoms. However, this is a medical emergency requiring immediate surgical intervention.
Appendicitis can be diagnosed through a combination of physical exam findings, diagnostic labs, and imaging studies performed at the emergency department. Blood tests would likely include a complete blood count to assess signs of infection, as well as a complete metabolic panel to monitor abdominal organ function. However, diagnostic imaging via CT scan remains the gold standard for diagnosing appendicitis. This condition is treated by a general surgeon, often urgently, via a procedure called an appendectomy. A surgeon will cut and seal the appendix, removing it from the body and ensuring that the abdomen will not sustain further damage.
