Abstract

Objective: The aim of this study is to examine the clinical manifestations and subsequent clinical outcomes of acute appendicitis in pediatric patients aged less than 3 years, with a particular focus on the utilization of ultrasound imaging in the diagnostic process. Methods: In this retrospective study, a comprehensive analysis was conducted on a cohort of pediatric patients aged three years and below who underwent appendectomy procedures within a span of 12 years. The Modified Pediatric Appendicitis Score (MPAS) was retrospectively employed, whereby a score of 5 or greater was indicative of a heightened probability of acute appendicitis. Results: A total of 60 pediatric patients underwent appendectomy, with a calculated mean age of 25.4 months. An ultrasound examination was conducted in 82.3% of the patient cohort, yielding diagnostic results in a total of 40 cases. The remaining quintet of patients exhibited a notable elevation in the MPAS, which is suggestive of the presence of acute appendicitis (AA). Perforation was observed in 12% of cases (n=8), with four patients exhibiting the formation of an appendicular mass. The integration of ultrasound with the MPAS demonstrated a diagnostic accuracy rate of 100% within this particular age cohort.

Description