Double Appendix: Implications for the Emergency Department

A double appendix, also known as vermiform appendix duplex, is a rare anomaly in humans, with a reported incidence of 1 in 25,000. The rarity of vermiform appendix duplication makes it a noteworthy medical occurrence. Approximately 100 reported cases have been documented since the first observed cas...

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Bibliographic Details
Published in:The Journal of emergency medicine 2021-08, Vol.61 (2), p.180-183
Main Authors: Tinkham, Matthew, Ziesat, Marie, Straumanis, John, Heisler, Samantha
Format: Article
Language:English
Subjects:
appendicitis
computed tomography
duplicated appendix
ultrasound
vermiform appendix duplex
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Summary:A double appendix, also known as vermiform appendix duplex, is a rare anomaly in humans, with a reported incidence of 1 in 25,000. The rarity of vermiform appendix duplication makes it a noteworthy medical occurrence. Approximately 100 reported cases have been documented since the first observed case in 1892. There are multiple types of appendiceal duplications, some of which include duplications of other organs. A 10-year-old boy was diagnosed with acute appendicitis by clinical examination and ultrasound. He underwent a laparoscopic appendectomy and had an unremarkable recovery. His pathology revealed acute suppurative appendicitis. Two months later, he presented to the emergency department due to bilateral lower abdominal pain with guarding and distension on examination. He underwent a computed tomography of the abdomen and pelvis secondary to concern for a postoperative abscess, which instead showed a normal-appearing retrocecal appendix containing oral contrast. The patient was diagnosed with constipation, and his symptoms resolved with an enema. Our patient had two completely separate appendices, one arising from the cecal tinea coli, and one retrocecal. Why Should an Emergency Physician Be Aware of This? Clinicians should be aware of this rare anomaly as a potential diagnosis in a patient with a history of prior appendectomy and clinical signs consistent with recurrent appendicitis. This also underscores the need for communication between doctors and patients, along with their families, to avoid delays in diagnosis in the future.
ISSN:0736-4679
2352-5029
DOI:10.1016/j.jemermed.2021.02.025