Appendicular abscess laboratory findings

Hematologic parameters suggestive of infection-like leukocytosis, anemia, abnormal platelet counts, and abnormal liver function frequently are present in patients with appendicular abscess. Patients who are debilitated or elderly often fail to mount reactive leukocytosis or fever. Blood cultures indicating persistent polymicrobial bacteremia strongly implicate the presence of an abscess. Common electrolyte and bio-marker indicators of appendicitis include leukocytosis and a shift to the left in the segmented neutrophils.

CBC with differential:

• Leukocytosis (range between 10,500 to 35,00O/mm³)
• Anemia
• Abnormal platelet counts
• Abnormal liver function

Blood culture:

• Low sensitivity in diagnosing the causative organism in appendicular abscess as it shows positivity in few cases, but it also helps to distinguish abscesses from sterile abscess from infected and provide guidance for selection of antibiotics.