Year: 2026
Type: article
Study design: Case Report
Abstract: Acute epiploic appendagitis (AEA) is a rare cause of acute abdomen due to ischemic inflammation of an epiploic appendage, often from torsion or venous thrombosis. We report the case of an elderly woman with acute left lower quadrant abdominal pain, initially suspected of having an abdominal abscess. Clinical examination showed localized tenderness without fever, with mild leukocytosis and elevated C-reactive protein. Ultrasound revealed an oval hyperechoic mass, confirmed by computed tomography (CT) as a hyperdense lesion with a central fatty core, consistent with AEA. Conservative management with non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs led to resolution within 7 days. The literature review highlights an incidence of 0.8-2.5% in acute abdomens, with a predilection for obese adults. Diagnosis relies on clinical and imaging findings, with CT as the gold standard. Differential diagnosis includes diverticulitis, appendicitis, and abscesses. An integrated clinical-instrumental approach is essential to avoid unnecessary surgical interventions.
Source: Italian Journal of Medicine
Institution: University of Naples Federico II
Language: English
Subfield: Rheumatology
Field: Medicine
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: diamond
OpenAlex ID: W7125001829