Acute appendicitis secondary to Entamoeba histolytica infestation

Abstract

Acute appendicitis secondary to amoebic infestation is a rare possibility, especially in endemic areas. If left untreated, significant postoperative morbidity and mortality can result from the spread of amoebic trophozoites and subsequent tissue reaction. Histopathological examination of the resected appendix with demonstration of invasion by the parasite is mandatory for establishing a diagnosis. Careful examination of the specimen is thus of paramount importance.

Keywords: Appendicitis; Entamoeba histolytica; histopathology.