ABSTRACT
DIFFERENTIAL DIAGNOSIS Appendicitis This is infl ammation of the appendix believed to be caused by a faecolith. Although it can occur at any age, it is more usual in younger people. Symptoms initially start as diffuse central abdominal colic, shifting to the right iliac fossa when peritonism develops. The pain is worsened by movement, touch and coughing. The patient may feel hot, feverish and nauseous. Often patients are constipated (although they can have diarrhoea) and may have a reduced appetite.
