Question

Study guide for the lower GI System and accessory glands A. Appendicitis 1. What is appendicitis and what is the major cause? 2. When a person is being worked up for appendicitis and being prepared fo

Answer 1

Appendicitis is the inflammation of the appendix, usually caused by an obstruction. When a person is suspected to have appendicitis, a physical examination and various tests are conducted to confirm the diagnosis.

Step-by-step explanation:

Appendicitis is the inflammation of the appendix, a small pouch attached to the large intestine. The major cause of appendicitis is usually the obstruction of the appendix by fecal matter, tumors, or lymph nodes. When a person is being worked up for appendicitis and being prepared for surgery, the healthcare team will typically perform a physical examination, order laboratory tests (such as blood tests and imaging studies), and administer antibiotics to prevent infection.