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==Overview==
==Overview==
Appendicitis is caused by the obstruction of the [[Lumen (anatomy)|tubular space]] inside the appendix.  This initial problem is compounded into a cascade of events that lead to the inflammation of the appendix and the obstruction of the blood vessels supplying it.  Once these blood vessels are obstructed, appendiceal tissue starts to die and leak out its cellular components.  If the disease is not treated, eventually the appendix will rupture which could lead to death.
Appendicitis is caused by the obstruction of the [[Lumen (anatomy)|tubular space]] inside the [[appendix]].  This initial problem is compounded into a cascade of events that lead to the inflammation of the appendix and the obstruction of the blood vessels supplying it.  Once these blood vessels are obstructed, appendiceal tissue starts to die and leak out its cellular components.  If the disease is not treated, eventually the appendix will rupture which could lead to death.


==Pathophysiology==
==Pathophysiology==

Revision as of 16:44, 13 August 2012

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Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [1]

Overview

Appendicitis is caused by the obstruction of the tubular space inside the appendix. This initial problem is compounded into a cascade of events that lead to the inflammation of the appendix and the obstruction of the blood vessels supplying it. Once these blood vessels are obstructed, appendiceal tissue starts to die and leak out its cellular components. If the disease is not treated, eventually the appendix will rupture which could lead to death.

Pathophysiology

  1. On the basis of experimental evidence, acute appendicitis seems to be the end result of a primary obstruction of the appendix lumen[1][2].
  2. Once this obstruction occurs, the appendix subsequently becomes filled with mucus and distends, increasing intraluminal and intramural pressures.
  3. The increase in pressure leads to thrombosis and occlusion of the small vessels, and the stasis of lymphatic flow.
  4. As these clots and blockages progress, the appendix becomes ischemic and then necrotic.
  5. Rarely, spontaneous recovery can occur at this point. As bacteria begin to leak out through the dying walls, pus forms within and around the appendix (suppuration).
  6. The end result of this cascade is appendiceal rupture causing peritonitis, which may lead to septicemia and eventually death.

Associated Conditions

Associated conditions of Appendicitis include:

References

  1. Wangensteen OH, Bowers WF. Significance of the obstructive factor in the genesis of acute appendicitis. Arch Surg 1937;34:496-526
  2. Pieper R, Kager L, Tidefelt U.Obstruction of appendix vermiformis causing acute appendicitis: An experimental study in rabbit. Acta Chir Scand 1982;148:63-72