Acute appendicitis complicated by peritonitis in a premature newborn: a clinical observation

BACKGROUND: Acute appendicitis in premature newborns (AAPI) is very rare case and is described as isolated observations. AAPI symptoms and clinical picture are similar to those of other acute abdominal diseases in premature newborns. Its diagnosis before surgery is one of the complex problems of neonatal surgery. This pathology is detected accidentally during surgery for other diseases. CLINICAL CASE DESCRIPTION: We present a rare clinical case of acute appendicitis complicated by peritonitis in a premature newborn aged 11 days, weighing 1200 g. After a clinical and radiological examination diagnosis of necrotic enterocolitis (NEC) and perforation of a hollow organ was put. Laparocentesis and drainage of the abdominal cavity were performed. After patient’s state stabilization three days later gangrenous perforated appendicitis was diagnosed during laparotomy 3 days later, and appendectomy was performed. Recovery complied with that of the surgical pathology. On day 13th, the patient was transferred to the department of pathology of premature babies for nursing. The child, being in satisfactory condition, was discharged home at the age of 1 month weighing 2250 g. CONCLUSION: Laparocentesis and drainage of the abdominal cavity with subsequent laparotomy and appendectomy improves outcomes in AAPI patient.