Appendicite et péritonite appendiculaire de l'enfant

Appendectomy is the first intestinal intervention in childhood; however, despite its frequency; the diagnosis of appendicitis or appendicular peritonitis remains sometimes difficult. The morbidity and even the mortality associated with this disease are not negligible. Most of the time, the diagnosis is based on clinical examination and simple blood tests (leukocytes count, C reactive protein), performed again if necessary. Ultrasounds and CT scan are undertaken in case of doubtful diagnosis. Once appendicitis is diagnosed, appendectomy remains the “gold standard”, associated with antibiotics depending on the severity of abdominal infection. Appendicitis, particularly perforated cases, may be complicated by parietal or intra abdominal abscess. Antibiotherapy and eventually percutaneous drainage are indicated in such cases.