Name of the Condition

• Acute Appendicitis with Localized Peritonitis, without Perforation or Gangrene (ICD Code: K35.30)

Summary

• Acute appendicitis is a sudden inflammation of the appendix, which can cause localized peritonitis, an inflammation of the peritoneum (the lining of the abdominal cavity). In this particular situation, the inflammation has not led to either perforation or gangrene of the appendix.

Causes

• The exact cause of appendicitis is not entirely known, but it is often associated with blockage of the appendix, which can be due to fecal matter, a foreign body, or an enlarged lymphoid follicles. This blockage can lead to bacterial infection and inflammation.

Risk Factors

• Being between 10 and 30 years old.
• Family history of appendicitis.
• Low fiber diet, contributing to constipation and increased risk of blockage.

Symptoms

• Sudden pain that begins on the right side of the lower abdomen or around the navel and later shifts.
• Nausea and vomiting.
• Loss of appetite.
• Low-grade fever.
• Abdominal bloating or tenderness.
• Constipation or diarrhea.

Diagnosis

• Physical examination to assess pain in the lower abdomen.
• Imaging tests such as an abdominal ultrasound, MRI, or CT scan.
• Blood tests to check for infection, indicated by a high white blood cell count.

Treatment Options

• Surgical removal of the appendix (appendectomy): this is the standard treatment that involves removing the appendix to prevent any complications.
• Antibiotics: administered to treat infection.

Prognosis and Follow-Up

• The prognosis is generally excellent with prompt appendectomy. Most patients recover quickly and fully after surgery.
• Follow-up care may include monitoring for infection, redness, or swelling at the surgery site.

Complications

• If untreated, complications can include spreading infection, abscess formation, and peritonitis. However, without perforation or gangrene, these risks are minimized with treatment.

Lifestyle & Prevention

• Although there's no guaranteed prevention, a diet high in fiber may help reduce the risk by preventing constipation.
• Staying hydrated and maintaining regular physical activity also support overall digestive health.

When to Seek Professional Help

• Immediate medical attention should be sought if severe abdominal pain occurs, particularly if accompanied by fever, nausea, or vomiting, which could indicate appendicitis.

Additional Resources

• American College of Surgeons (https://www.facs.org)
• Mayo Clinic Appendicitis information (https://www.mayoclinic.org)
• National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (https://www.niddk.nih.gov/)

Tips for Medical Coders

• Ensure to distinguish between appendicitis with and without perforation or gangrene when coding.
• Verify that the documented diagnosis aligns with the symptoms and clinical findings described in the medical record to avoid misclassification.