Publication:

Leucocyte count in children with complicated and uncomplicated acute appendicitis: a comparative study

Background Identification of complicated and uncomplicated acute appendicitis is important in children. In acute appendicitis, along with clinical evaluation and staging, many laboratory tests have been used. The aim of the study was to compare total leucocyte count in children with uncomplicated and complicated acute appendicitis in different age groups.

Methods Retrospective cohort study was performed in children who underwent appendicectomy, in a Government tertiary care institution between January 2017 and December 2018. 206 patients were divided into complicated and uncomplicated appendicitis. Total leucocyte count at time of admission was compared according to age. Unpaired t test and Chi-square test were used for statistical analysis.

Results There were 136 males and 70 females. 107 patients (51.94%) had complicated and 99 (48.06%) had uncomplicated appendicitis. Mean leucocyte count per µl in uncomplicated appendicitis was 18993±3540 in 20000 per µl signifies complicated appendicitis in all age groups.