Retroperitoneal Abscess and Extensive Subcutaneous Emphysema in Perforated Appendicitis: a Case Report

Abstract

Most of the time, the diagnosis and treatment of appendicitis are straightforward. However, a missed diagnosis can sometimes lead to life-threatening complications. A fatal case of appendicitis in a 76-year-old man who presented with progressive abdominal pain, retroperitoneal abscesses and extensive subcutaneous emphysema, is described. Eventually, laparotomy showed appendicitis perforated into the retroperitoneum without any signs of peritonitis. Despite multiple operations the patient died two months after admission due to multiple organ failure.

Key Words:

• Perforated appendicitis
• retroperitoneal abscess
• subcutaneous emphysema

Additional information

Notes on contributors

N.B. Tomasoa

Dr. B. C. Vrouenraets, surgeon Department of Surgery, Sint Lucas Andreas Hospital Postbus 9243 1006 AE Amsterdam Tel.: [phone] Fax: [phone] E-mail: [email protected]