Appendicular masses in Khartoum

ABSTRACT

Ninety patients with acute appendicular masses were studied. The peak incidence was between the ages of 11 and 30 years, with a male to female ratio of 21. All patients but 9 responded to conservative treatment. Seventy two patients were followed up for 6 months. The recurrence rate was 23.7% occurring during the first 3 months. Interval appendicectomy was performed in 62 patients. Histological examination of the appendices showed atrophy and fibrosis in 34 appendices, normal histological findings in 20 patients and evidence of chronic non-specific inflammation in eight appendices. Interval appendicectomy may not be necessary in the majority of patients with appendicular masses especially those who can be followed up closely for a minimal of 6 month period