Accuracy of ultrasonography in acute right lower quadrant problems in children

Abstract

The ultrasonographic findings in 139 consecutive children examined for right lower quadrant pain were prospectively documented. The following diagnoses were offered: (1) normal, (2) appendicitis, (3) mesenteric adenitis-enteritis, (4) adnexal problems, and (5) other. These diagnoses were then compared to the final operative or nonoperative clinical diagnoses in each case and overall percent accuracy was determined. The overall percent accuracy was 98 %, and with this result ultrasound of the acute abdomen, especially the right lower quadrant, can be placed into the forefront of primary care imaging of patients with right lower quadrant pain. Ultrasound provides more useful information, quicker, and more consistently than do clinical or laboratory evaluations. Consideration should be given to the performance of this study early in the work-up of these patients.