Appendicitis

The appendix is a finger-shaped pouch about 5-10 cm long that projects from the caecum - the beginning of the large intestine in the right lower corner of the abdomen. Although the appendix does not seem to serve any known purpose to humans, it can often cause problems, becoming inflamed and filled with pus in a condition known as appendicitis. An operation to remove the appendix before it bursts is usually necessary, as a ruptured appendix can lead to peritonitis, an inflammation of the membrane lining the abdomen and covering the viscera. This is a serious medical emergency, requiring urgent treatment.

Although anyone can develop appendicitis, its peak period of incidence is between the ages of 10 and 40, and is the most common reason for emergency abdominal surgery in children.