Acute Appendicitis in Elderly: Presentation, Diagnosis, and Treatment

Despite a lower incidence of acute appendicitis, the rate of complicated appendicitis is higher in the elderly. Due to atypical symptoms, unreliable physical examination, and laboratory values high suspicion for this condition is warranted and mandates early CT exam for diagnosis. Laparoscopic surgery should be the primary option for this condition when the appropriate equipment and skills are available. The data on “only” antibiotic treatment option for uncomplicated appendicitis in elderly patients are scarce and should only be practiced in well-designed clinical trials or in cases where an absolute contraindication to anesthesia or surgery exists.