Features Associated with Delayed Diagnosis of Appendicitis in Children: A Retrospective Analysis of 1411 Cases

Although acute appendicitis (AA) is one of the most frequent emergency surgical conditions, diagnosing it is still challenging for the pediatric population [1–3]. The multitude of differential diagnoses and the frequently atypical clinical picture make timely diagnosis of appendicitis quite difficult in children. Delays in the diagnosis and surgical care of AA are associated with rising costs to the healthcare system and poorer patient outcomes, including longer hospital stays and increased postoperative morbidity [2,4].