Appendicular abscess CT

Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [1];Associate Editor(s)-in-Chief: Aditya Ganti M.B.B.S. [2]

Overview

CT scans are the diagnostic test of choice for detecting appendicular abscess. They can provide critical information regarding the size of the abscess. CT scans are preferred over ultrasounds for the detection of abscess, but is contraindicated in children due to risk of exposure.

CT

CT is significantly more sensitive than ultrasound for the diagnosis of appendicitis.^[1]
Appendiceal wall thickening (wall ≥ 3mm) with hyperenhancement and mural stratification can be seen
Fluid collection is seen in the appendicular region sometimes mixed with air.

CT of abdomen showing an abscess in the retrocaecal location with an adjacent appendicolith with ascending colon being displaced anteriorly.

References

↑ Choi D, Park H, Lee YR, Kook SH, Kim SK, Kwag HJ, Chung EC (2003). “The most useful findings for diagnosing acute appendicitis on contrast-enhanced helical CT”. Acta Radiol. 44 (6): 574–82. PMID 14616200.

[pmid14616200-1] Choi D, Park H, Lee YR, Kook SH, Kim SK, Kwag HJ, Chung EC (2003). “The most useful findings for diagnosing acute appendicitis on contrast-enhanced helical CT”. Acta Radiol. 44 (6): 574–82. PMID 14616200.

[1]