Intraluminal appendiceal fluid is a predictive factor for recurrent appendicitis after initial successful non-operative management of uncomplicated appendicitis in pediatric patients.

BACKGROUND: The risk factors for recurrent appendicitis in pediatric patients are unclear. This study aimed to identify the predictive factors for recurrent appendicitis in pediatric patients who initially underwent successful non-operative management of uncomplicated appendicitis. METHODS: Potential predictive factors for recurrent appendicitis in terms of clinical characteristics, laboratory data, and abdominal ultrasonography and computed tomography findings, were evaluated. RESULTS: This study included 125 patients who underwent initial successful non-operative management of appendicitis. The rate of recurrent appendicitis was 19.2%, and the mean time to recurrence was 12.6 months. Univariate analyses found that rebound tenderness, muscle guarding, appendicoliths, appendiceal diameter >9 mm, and intraluminal appendiceal fluid were associated with recurrent appendicitis. Multivariate analysis identified only intraluminal appendiceal fluid as an independent predictor of recurrent appendicitis. CONCLUSIONS: Intraluminal appendiceal fluid is a predictive factor for recurrent appendicitis after initial non-operative management. The results of this study provide valuable information that may help to determine the appropriate management during the first episode of appendicitis.