Diagnosis of Perforated Appendiceal Diverticulitis Following Laparoscopic Appendectomy

TL;DR

A rare case of perforated appendiceal diverticulitis was diagnosed and treated with laparoscopic appendectomy, highlighting the condition's diagnostic challenges and management.

Contribution

This case report emphasizes the diagnostic complexity of appendiceal diverticulitis and advocates for individualized surgical management.

Findings

Appendiceal diverticulitis is often misdiagnosed due to its similarity to acute appendicitis.

Prophylactic appendectomy is recommended even for non-inflamed diverticula to prevent complications.

Histopathological examination is crucial for confirming the diagnosis.

Abstract

Appendiceal diverticulitis is a rare and often underdiagnosed condition that poses significant diagnostic challenges due to its atypical clinical presentation and similarity to acute appendicitis. We describe the case of a 37-year-old female patient who presented with acute abdominal pain and was ultimately diagnosed with appendicitis through computed tomography (CT). The patient underwent a successful laparoscopic appendectomy. This case underscores the diagnostic complexity of appendiceal diverticulitis, which is frequently mistaken for other causes of acute abdomen. The condition may be congenital or acquired, with differing pathophysiological mechanisms and histological features. Given the risk of complications such as perforation or neoplasia, prophylactic appendectomy is recommended even in cases of non-inflamed diverticula. Histopathological examination remains essential for definitive diagnosis. This case highlights the importance of heightened clinical suspicion and individualized surgical management in improving patient outcomes.

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