The radiologic roadmap for treatment of an acute appendicitis patient who tested positive for coronavirus disease 19

• Published in: BJR case reports Vol. 7; no. 6; p. 20210102
• Main Authors: Arik, Şeref Barbaros, Gunaydin, Elif, Bİlgiç, Celal İsmail, Güvenç, İnanç
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: England The British Institute of Radiology 09.03.2022
• Subjects: Case Report
• ISSN: 2055-7159; 2055-7159
• DOI: 10.1259/bjrcr.20210102

In this study, we aimed to emphasize the role of radiological imaging in determining the treatment of a patient, who tested positive for COVID-19 and diagnosed with acute appendicitis during the pandemic. A 31-year-old patient presented to the emergency department due to abdominal pain. Ultrasound examination, thoracic and pelvic CT scan were performed. Non-complicated appendicitis can be treated conservatively with antibiotics. Treatment can be maintained by starting with IV antibiotics and bridging therapy with oral antibiotics. This studysummarize how radiological follow-up can be used to decide on the suitability of the patient for appropriate medical treatment as an alternative to surgery in a patient, whose gold standard treatment is emergency surgical intervention, which is frequently encountered in the emergency department during the COVID-19 pandemic. Healthcare workers need to be protected to ensure the continuity of the health system. On the other hand, patients requiring emergency healthcare should also be provided with appropriate treatment. Healthcare professionals should choose the most appropriate treatment method, protecting themselves and their patients as much as possible.