Appendicitis can be contagious

But not necessarily cut it. The new theory of physicians suggests that the inflammation of the appendix is ​​a virus, like the flu. Until now, scientists do not know exactly what causes appendicitis attack, why it often happens at a certain age, and in the summer.

Every tenth inhabitant of the Earth during life brings appendicitis Which is the most common indication for surgery. This disease causes   inflammation   appendix appendix Located on the caecum. By the way, the essence and purpose of this process is also not exactly known. It is believed that it is an atavism - in ancient times, the appendix can help people digest very rough food, such as tree bark.

Inflammation of the appendix   It poses a threat to human life, if peritonitis develops, so it is removed surgically. But in a new study conducted by specialists of the Southwestern Medical Center at the University of Texas, provides answers to the question of causes appendicitis And put forward the assumption that remove the appendix   It is not always necessary.

The researchers based their findings on a study of medical records of patients with appendicitis, stomach flu and viral infections for a period of 36 years. It turned out that in the United States were reported incidence peaks   appendicitis   1977, 1981, 1984, 1987, 1994 and 1998. Scientists believe that such outbursts are typical for viral infections seasonal origin (most attacks occurred in the summer).

However, the researchers excluded appendicitis connection with the flu virus and other common infections. "Though appendicitis is very common, it still remains a medical mystery," - said study author Dr. Edward Livingston. He stressed that the science is sufficient evidence that appendectomy   It is not always necessary. Appendicitis   case, the sailors in the open ocean, and children who could not be operated on urgently. In many cases of appendicitis held in itself, as the study.

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