Appendiceal diverticulitis: a rare pathology disguised as acute appendicitis

Abstract

Appendiceal diverticulitis, although rare, is an important differential diagnosis in cases of right iliac fossa pain. Previously, it has often been considered as a variant of acute appendicitis, due to its seemingly similar clinical presentation. However, recent research indicates that appendiceal diverticulitis is a distinct clinical entity, with demographic characteristics and clinical features that are different to acute appendicitis. It is also associated with higher risk of severe morbidity and mortality, necessitating timely diagnosis and management. In this report, we present a case of a 58-year-old male patient with diverticulitis of the vermiform appendix and review the relevant literature. We describe the classification of appendiceal diverticulosis and diverticulitis, their clinical presentation, and their potential complications. We outline the radiological findings of appendiceal diverticulitis and acute appendicitis and discuss the important role of diagnostic imaging in distinguishing between these 2 conditions.