Introduction
Appendicitis is one of the most frequent surgical emergencies in children. It occurs when the appendix becomes inflamed, usually due to a blockage. Prompt diagnosis and treatment are essential to avoid complications such as rupture or abscess.

What Is Appendicitis?
The appendix is a small, finger-like pouch attached to the large intestine. Inflammation typically results from obstruction by stool, lymph tissue, or infection, causing pain, swelling, and sometimes infection spreading within the abdomen.

Common Signs and Symptoms

• Abdominal pain (usually starting around the belly button, then shifting to the lower right side)
• Fever
• Nausea or vomiting
• Loss of appetite
• Pain with movement or walking
• Sometimes diarrhea or constipation

In younger children, symptoms may be less specific, making diagnosis more challenging.

How Is It Diagnosed?

• Physical examination for tenderness and guarding
• Blood tests (look for elevated white blood cell count)
• Ultrasound – first-line imaging in most pediatric cases
• CT scan – occasionally used for unclear cases

Treatment Options

• Surgery (Appendectomy) is the standard treatment and can be performed using:
  • Laparoscopic (minimally invasive) approach
  • Open surgery, especially if the appendix has ruptured
• Antibiotics are given before and after surgery
• In selected mild cases, non-surgical antibiotic treatment may be considered (less common in children)

Recovery

• Most children recover quickly, especially after laparoscopic surgery
• If the appendix has ruptured, hospital stay may be longer with additional antibiotics
• Return to school and normal activities is typically within 1–2 weeks for uncomplicated cases

When to Seek Medical Attention
If a child has ongoing abdominal pain, especially if it worsens over time or is associated with vomiting and fever, medical attention should be sought immediately.