What does AA mean in BRITISH MEDICINE

Acute appendicitis is caused by a blockage in the lumen of the appendix, leading to increased pressure and inflammation. This blockage can be due to infection, fecaliths, or lymphoid hyperplasia.

The classic symptoms of acute appendicitis include mild to severe abdominal pain, tenderness when pressed on the abdomen (especially in the lower right side), nausea and vomiting, fever, loss of appetite, and constipation or diarrhea.

Diagnosis of acute appendicitis is made through a combination of physical examination findings such as pain when pressing on the abdomen or moving around in bed, imaging tests such as CT scan or ultrasound, laboratory tests such as CBC or CMP, and sometimes laparoscopy if needed.

Treatment for acute appendicitis usually involves surgery to remove the inflamed appendix (appendectomy). Other treatments may include antibiotics if there's an infection present, IV fluids to maintain hydration status and nutrition support while waiting for surgery.

Complications of untreated acute appendicitis include perforation of the appendix which can lead to abscess formation or intestinal obstruction. Rarely, it can also lead to sepsis (bacteria in blood stream) due to rupture of an infected appendix into surrounding organs.