A 62-year-old man returns home from playing bingo, complaining of midline abdomi

Question

A 62-year-old man returns home from playing bingo, complaining of midline abdominal pain. He denies being hit or suffering any other trauma. Over the next few hours the pain does not remit but becomes more severe and is localized to the lower right quadrant. He also develops nausea and vomiting. He denies diarrhea and has not had similar episodes. The patient lies down in bed, and over the next 24 hours, the pain worsens and he develops fever and chills and is brought to the emergency center. On examination, he has a temperature of 102°F and appears ill. His abdomen is mildly distended and has hypoactive bowel sounds. The abdomen is diffusely tender to palpation, particularly in the right lower quadrant. What is the most likely diagnosis? What additional tests would help in making an accurate diagnosis?

Explanation / Answer

Appenciditis. Appendicitis is an acute inflammatory condition of the appendix, presenting with the symptoms of nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite and fever. The increased levels of prostaglandins, TNF alpha and IL1/IL2 raises the body temperature (pyrexia). The appendix is generally removed within 24 hours of onset of pain.

Related Questions

Navigate

• Browse (All)
• Browse A
• Subjects

Integrity-first tutoring: explanations and feedback only — we do not complete graded work. Learn more.