Appendicitis Complications

If appendicitis is not diagnosed quickly or if the appendicitis goes untreated, serious complications are more likely to occur. These serious complications can include rupture of the appendix, peritonitis, abscess, organ failure, and death.

An Overview of Appendicitis Complications

Serious complications of appendicitis may include:
 
  • Rupture of the appendix
  • Peritonitis
  • Abscess
  • Organ failure
  • Death.
     

Ruptured Appendix

A rupture is when the appendix bursts or tears. A rupture will occur if appendicitis is not diagnosed quickly and goes untreated. Infants, young children, and older adults are at highest risk of a rupture.
 

Peritonitis or Abscess

A ruptured appendix can lead to peritonitis and abscess. Peritonitis is a dangerous infection that occurs when bacteria and other contents of the torn appendix leak into the abdomen. An abscess usually takes the form of a swollen mass filled with fluid and bacteria. In a few patients, complications of appendicitis can even lead to organ failure and death.
 
Written by/reviewed by: Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
 
Other Articles in This eMedTV Presentation
Referring Pages Articles