Colon CT Appearances
Appendicitis CT Findings
- Enlarged appendix >6mm
- Thickening of appendiceal wall >2mm with enhancement
- Periappendiceal fat stranding
- Inflamed soft tissue
- Calcified mass(es)
- Appendicoliths may be present
Other Information About Appendicitis
Etiology:
- Can affect anyone
- Increased risk with family history of appendicitis
Epidemiology:
- Mean age at presentation is 28 but can present at any age
- Usually occurs within first 5 decades of life
Presentation:
- Pain in right lower quadrant
- Nausea and vomiting
- Loss of appetite
- Fever
- Abdominal distension; may present with small bowel obstruction
- Gas
Prognosis:
- Usually treated with appendectomy
Related Pearls: Appendix and Appendicitis
Related Lectures:
CT Evaluation of the Appendix: Appendicitis and Beyond - Part 2
CT Evaluation of the Appendix: Appendicitis and Beyond - Part 1