GI and Abdomen Case 4:  Appendicitis / Abscess

Usually no radiological work up is needed.

Radiological Features (findings are not always specific):

• Appendicolith
• Sentinel loop - dilated ileum near the appendix
• Air in the appendix

Ultra Sound (graded compression is used):

• Appendix is not compressible
• Appendix measures 7 mm or more
• May have appendicolith
• May have adjacent mass, abscess, etc.

A normal appendix is not seen most of the time. There are many false positive results and negatives in this procedure. However, this definitely has a place in children and pregnant women.

CT: Highly accurate

Signs:

• Greater than 6 mm in diameter
• Appendicolith
• Non filling with contrast
• Surrounding inflammatory changes in fat cecum and bowel
• Abscess

Pre:

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