Acute Appendicitis in Preschoolers: A Study of Two Populations
Author Information
Author(s): Gardikis Stefanos, Giatromanolaki Alexandra, Kambouri Katerina, Tripsianis Gregorios, Sivridis Efthimios, Vaos George
Primary Institution: Alexandroupolis University Hospital, Democritus University of Thrace School of Medicine
Hypothesis
What are the incidence and risk factors for acute appendicitis in preschoolers in our region?
Conclusion
The study found a significantly higher incidence of acute appendicitis in preschool-aged Muslim children compared to Christian Orthodox children, potentially linked to hygiene conditions and lymphoid tissue levels.
Supporting Evidence
- Acute appendicitis was more frequent in Muslim preschoolers (39.4%) than in Christian preschoolers (17.7%).
- Living conditions such as lack of inside toilets and overcrowding were more common among Muslim children.
- The amount of lymphoid tissue in the appendix was significantly higher in Muslim preschoolers.
Takeaway
Muslim preschoolers are more likely to get appendicitis than Christian preschoolers, possibly because of their living conditions and more lymphoid tissue in their appendices.
Methodology
The study analyzed data from 352 children who underwent appendectomy for suspected appendicitis over 7 years, focusing on preschoolers and their religious affiliations.
Potential Biases
Potential biases may arise from the reliance on parental reporting for data collection.
Limitations
The study is retrospective and may not account for all potential confounding factors.
Participant Demographics
Participants included 82 preschool children, with 43 being Muslim and 39 Christian Orthodox, predominantly living in rural areas.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.001
Confidence Interval
95% CI = 1.80-5.07
Statistical Significance
p<0.001
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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