What is the most common cause of appendicitis?

The most common cause of appendicitis is a fecalith, which is a hardened mass of stool that can obstruct the lumen of the appendix. This obstruction is critical because it leads to increased pressure within the appendix. As pressure builds, blood flow is compromised, resulting in ischemia. The stagnant contents also create a favorable environment for bacterial growth, leading to inflammation and infection of the appendix.

While there are other factors that can contribute to appendicitis, such as intestinal obstruction from various causes or infections that can cause lymphoid hyperplasia, a fecalith is the specific trigger identified in many cases. The prevalence of fecaliths in appendicitis cases highlights their role as a direct cause of this condition, making it the most common cause recognized in clinical practice. Understanding this connection is vital for diagnosing and managing appendicitis effectively.