Cure8 research brief
Appendiceal phlegmon and fistulization can produce focal terminal ileal changes that look like Crohn’s disease on imaging and endoscopy; recognizing this can prevent misdiagnosis.
Clinicians evaluating focal terminal ileal inflammation, gastroenterologists, surgeons, and patients with new or uncertain Crohn’s diagnoses
A 23-year-old man presented with right lower–quadrant pain and diarrhea. Imaging suggested ileocolitis and colonoscopy found fibrinopurulent discharge from an inflamed appendiceal orifice plus a focal ileal lesion. Surgery and pathology confirmed complicated acute (gangrenous) appendicitis with a phlegmon and an ileal fistula.
The report underscores that not all terminal ileal inflammation is Crohn’s disease: adjacent appendiceal disease can produce focal ileal abnormalities and even fistulas. Careful correlation of endoscopic findings with imaging and surgical/pathologic evaluation helped reach the correct diagnosis.
This is a single-case report summarized from the article abstract. It highlights a diagnostic pitfall but does not provide prevalence or outcome data.
Review the original publication for the complete reporting, methods, and context.
This Cure8 brief is based on source text from the linked article. Cure8 is informational only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
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