The radiological signs of acute appendicitis in infancy and childhood
Isdale, J.M.
South African Medical Journal 53(10): 363-364
1978
ISSN/ISBN: 0256-9574 PMID: 653471 Document Number: 135964
The radiological findings in 93 children operated on for acute appendicitis were reviewed retrospectively; acute appendicitis was confirmed in 76 (81%). These children were compared with 40 children with abdominal pain, but without appendicitis. Pre-operative radiographs in the children with appendicitis showed a significantly higher incidence of scoliosis, properitoneal line displacement, caecal dilatation with air/fluid levels and terminal ileal dilatation with air/fluid levels. The incidence of radiologically demonstrable faecaliths was not statistically higher in the children suffering from acute appendicitis. In children under the age of 4 years, in whom the diagnosis of acute appendicitis is often difficult, the radiological signs are helpful.