Appendicitis I: Inleiding

Appendicitis represents inflammation of the vermiform appendix.

It stems from an obstruction in the appendiceal lumen caused by a fecalith, lymphoid hyperplasia, or foreign bodies such as tumors.

This initial obstruction leads to the stagnation of contents within the lumen, resulting in distention and increased intraluminal pressure.

Eventually, bacterial overgrowth leads to infection and acute inflammation, presenting the clinical manifestations associated with appendicitis.

The manifestations typically begin with dull periumbilical pain that gradually shifts to the right lower quadrant, where it becomes sharp and well-localized, often centered at McBurney's point, halfway between the umbilicus and right iliac crest.

This pain may be accompanied by low-grade fever, anorexia, nausea, and vomiting.

Additionally, during abdominal examination, palpation may reveal Rovsing's signs, indicating increased right lower quadrant pain when palpating the left lower quadrant.

Localized tenderness at McBurney's point and rebound tenderness, where pain intensifies upon pressure release, may be present.