PROMPT RECOGNITION OF STUMPAPPENDICITIS IS IMPORTANT TO AVOID SERIOUS COMPLICATIONS: A CASE REPORT

Retroperitoneal abscess is a rare condition which is difficult to diagnose and treat because of its insidious onset. Herein, we present a case of retroperitoneal abscess secondary to stump appendicitis. A 50-year-old female was admitted with history of abdominal pain more in the right lower quadrant for 1 week. History of fever present since week associated with chills, History of poor stream of urine for 1 week, not associated with burning micturition. Her past medical history showed a laparoscopic appendectomy operation performed 5 months ago. Computed tomography of abdomen and pelvis showed features suggestive of right psoas abscess with possible communication with the tubular structure arising from IC junction (? appendicular stump), Ill-defined peripherally enhancing collection in presacral region and bilateral ischiorectal region -? Abscess. CECT Abdomen and pelvis showed right mild Hydroureteronephrosis. Cystoscopy + DJ stenting was done post which Exploration with drainage of retroperitoneal abscess with stump appendectomy done on 15/2/19. Intraoperatively 50cc pus with caseous material was drained, psoas was bulky. 3cm appendicular stump was noted, dissected, ligated and buried. A drain was placed in the site of the operation. Post-operative course was uneventful and he was discharged 9 days after surgery. The histologic evaluation reported suppurative stump appendicitis. Residual long stump of the appendix after appendectomy might lead to persistence of infection and possibly late complications such as intraperitoneal, retroperitoneal or iliopsoas abscess. Surgical exploration may be necessary in persistent cases of Retroperitoneal abscess, to allow for recognition and treatment of the underlying pathology.