Perforated Acute Appendicitis Presenting as Pneumoperitoneum in a Preterm Neonate: A Case Report and Literature Review

Case Reports in Surgery 2026 Open access

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Authors: Ghadia A. AlAbidi, Mohammed Saquib Mallick, Ali H. Al-Ameer, Abdulrahman Mohammed Alwahbi
DOI: 10.1155/cris/5530326
Cited by: 1
References: 13

Abstract

Acute appendicitis is rare in the neonatal population, and delayed diagnosis is associated with increased morbidity and mortality. Pneumoperitoneum is infrequently identified on plain radiography in cases of neonatal appendicitis, which can result in delays in diagnosis and intervention. In this case, we report a 15-day-old preterm female neonate who presented with irritability and abdominal distention. A plain abdominal radiograph demonstrated significant pneumoperitoneum, and surgical exploration revealed perforated appendicitis.

Fields of Study & Subjects

Appendicitis Diagnosis and Management Intestinal Malrotation and Obstruction Disorders Pediatric Urology and Nephrology Studies

Publication details

Journal / source
Case Reports in Surgery
Publisher
Wiley
Volume
2026
Issue
1
Pages
5530326–5530326
Publication date
1 January 2026
Language
EN