Preoperative Evaluation Of White Blood Cells (Wbcs) And Neutrophils In The Diagnosis Of Appendicitis

Introduction: Appendicitis is the most common abdominal surgical emergency. The cause of acute appendicitis is unknown but is probably multifactorial; luminal obstruction and dietary and familial factors have all been suggested. Appendicectomy is the treatment of choice and is increasingly done as a laparoscopic procedure. Objective of this study is to evaluate the white blood cells (WBCS) and neutrophils. But the use of this value in the diagnosis of appendicitis is unclear. Methods: It was a prospective, observational study. The study was conducted at RMMCH, Chidambaram for a period of one year i.e., from November 2009 to 2010. Data were collected by using data collection forms and analyzed the diagnostic values by using proper statistical tools. Results: White blood cells and neutrophils count was high in patients with inflamed and complicated appendix than normal appendix and in complicated than inflamed appendix. The males were significantly more affected than females. The WBC count in normal appendix patients was 10.46±6.56, in inflamed appendix patients was 14.03±4.18 and in complicated appendix patients was 15.10±5.12. The neutrophil count in normal appendix patients was 8.12±5.67, in inflamed appendix patients was 9.93±3.87 and in complicated patients was 12.6±4.37. Conclusion: The White blood cells and Neutrophils count should not be used for the diagnosis of appendicitis. Clinical data playsa major role in the diagnosis of appendicitis.