Which condition results from swelling of the appendix?

Which condition results from swelling of the appendix?

• A. Appendicitis
• B. Gastritis
• C. Colitis
• D. Diverticulitis

Answer: (A)

Swelling of the appendix reflects inflammation of that organ, which is called appendicitis. When the appendix becomes blocked—by a fecalith, mucus, or lymphoid tissue—it allows bacteria to multiply inside, triggering inflammation and pain. The classic course starts with vague periumbilical discomfort that often localizes to the right lower quadrant, with possible fever, nausea, and loss of appetite. If not treated promptly, the inflamed appendix can rupture, leading to peritonitis and serious complications, so urgent evaluation and often surgical removal are needed. Other options involve different parts of the digestive tract: gastritis is inflammation of the stomach lining, colitis is inflammation of the colon, and diverticulitis involves inflamed diverticula in the colon; none of these describe swelling of the appendix.

Swelling of the appendix reflects inflammation of that organ, which is called appendicitis. When the appendix becomes blocked—by a fecalith, mucus, or lymphoid tissue—it allows bacteria to multiply inside, triggering inflammation and pain. The classic course starts with vague periumbilical discomfort that often localizes to the right lower quadrant, with possible fever, nausea, and loss of appetite. If not treated promptly, the inflamed appendix can rupture, leading to peritonitis and serious complications, so urgent evaluation and often surgical removal are needed. Other options involve different parts of the digestive tract: gastritis is inflammation of the stomach lining, colitis is inflammation of the colon, and diverticulitis involves inflamed diverticula in the colon; none of these describe swelling of the appendix.