ACUTE APPENDICITIS IN YOUNG CHILDREN - CLINICAL COURSE AND DIAGNOSTIC CHALLENGES

Abstract

This thesis examines the distinctive clinical presentation of acute appendicitis in young children and addresses the complexities associated with delayed diagnosis in this vulnerable population. The investigation synthesizes current evidence regarding age-specific manifestations, diagnostic pitfalls, and optimal management strategies. Findings demonstrate that atypical symptomatology, limited verbal communication, and overlapping differential diagnoses contribute significantly to diagnostic delays, resulting in elevated perforation rates and adverse outcomes in pediatric patients under five years of age.