Appendicitis Research Today is a free monthly online journal that collates and summarizes the latest research about Appendicitis, including details on symptoms, surgery, causes, treatment.

Necrotizing Fasciitis Due to Acute Perforated Appendicitis: Case Report.

Chen CW, Hsiao CW, Wu CC, Jao SW, Lee TY, Kang JC

Division of Colon and Rectal Surgery, Department of Surgery, Tri-Service General Hospital, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei, Taiwan.

Acute appendicitis is one of the most common surgical emergencies. Accurate diagnosis is often hindered due to various presentations that differ from the typical signs of appendicitis, especially the position of the appendix. A delay in treatment increases the likelihood of complications such as perforation, which is associated with an increase in morbidity and mortality rates. We herein present the case of a 76-year-old woman presenting with necrotizing fasciitis of the abdominal wall and right flank regions due to a perforated appendix. Such complication is extremely rare but life-threatening. It may be confused with cellulitis, causing a delay in aggressive treatment. This case represents an unusual complication of a common disease. Also, acute appendicitis or intra-abdominal pathologies should be taken into consideration in determining the cause of necrotizing fasciitis presenting over abdominal, flank, or perineal regions.

Published 29 January 2008 in J Emerg Med.
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