Special Problems of Acute Appendicitis in Middle and Late Life

Complications Following Appendectomy for Acute Appendicitis in the Aged

“…It is important that we be aware that appendicitis in the aged will be more frequently observed in ensuing years, since older patients are increasing in number. In 1913 they accounted for 8 per cent of the cases studied, whereas in 1952 this figure had risen to 19.5 per cent (2). Of the 1,370 cases of appendicitis in our survey, 13.7 per cent were in patients 50 years of age or older.…”

“…He must bear in mind the possibility of appendicitis, and be aware that in approximately half of such patients the course is atypical. According to Boyce (2), “The most useful diagnostic aid is certainly the recollection of the possibility.”…”

“…It has been claimed by others (2) that appendicitis is a more rapidly progressing disease in the aged patient. Possible factors reducing the ability of the aged to resist the progress of infection are: 1) atrophy of lymphoid tissue in the appendicular wall, 2) fibrous changes in the appendix, and 3) vascular changes which reduce the blood supply.…”

Appendicitis in the Aged

“…With the generally rising life expectancy, a corresponding rise has taken place in the number of appendicitis cases among older persons admitted to hospital (Stalker, 1940;Simpson, 1946;Schullinger, 1950;Boyce, 1954;Brotherus, 1955).…”