Appendicitis remains a mystery despite the fact that it accounts for more than 300,000 operations every year. A new analysis in the Archives of Surgery suggests that this common condition may be precipitated by a viral infection. This epidemiological study notes that there have been many appendicitis outbreaks or clusters in the U.S. and other countries. This suggests an infectious disease trigger such as influenza virus, measles or cytomegalovirus. If the viral infection leads to swollen lymph tissue, it could obstruct the opening of the appendix and lead to bacterial infection or inflammation. If this hypothesis holds up, this kind of uncomplicated appendicitis might respond to antibiotic treatment. That could reduce the need for emergency appendectomy.
Archives Of Surgery Jan 2010
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