Appendicitis and its mimickers

Abstract

Unenhanced helical CT is an accurate technique for the evaluation of patients with suspected acute appendicitis. This non-operator-dependent examination can be performed without the risk of intravenous contrast material or the delay associated with the use of oral and rectal contrast material. This article reviews the unenhanced helical CT findings of acute appendicitis and those entities that commonly mimic acute appendicitis clinically.