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Computed tomography signs

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CT has not been widely accepted as a medium for investigation of appendicitis. Disadvantages include:

  • expense
  • time-consuming
  • sensitivity and specificity not greater than 80%
  • necessity for oral contrast media to produce adequate scan

Signs of appendicitis on a CT scan include:

  • thickened appendiceal wall
  • increased density of fat around caecum
  • faecoliths in appendix
  • abscess confined to wall of appendix

CT may find a niche in patients with an atypical history of right lower quadrant pain where provisional investigations have been equivocal.

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The content herein is provided for informational purposes and does not replace the need to apply professional clinical judgement when diagnosing or treating any medical condition. A licensed medical practitioner should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions.

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