[The diagnosis of appendicitis in childhood].

Abstract

89 preschool children, 2-4 years old, treated under the diagnosis of appendicitis were analyzed. 46 of them were operated. In 39% of those children the diagnosis of an acute nonperforated appendicitis could have been ensured, in 39% the diagnosis of a perforated appendicitis was found, in 22% the was found, in 22% the laparotomy was negative. In cases of an acute perforated appendicitis typical symptoms were vomiting (100%), general stomach-ache (89%) and fever (61%). In most cases of an perforated appendicitis the state of patients was reduced drastically (80%), in 50% an ileus could be observed. Half a children with an acute nonperforated appendicitis as well as an perforated appendicitis had got a respiratory disease additionally. This fact was the main reason for the to late diagnosis particularly in the age up to 3. In all cases being not sure a consequent control at a ward is necessary; an important fact for this recommendation is the shortness of the acute perforated appendicitis in early childhood.