LEFT-SIDED ACUTE APPENDICITIS AS AN UNCOMMON CAUSE OF ACUTE ABDOMEN: A CASE REPORT

Left-sided acute appendicitis (LSAA) is an uncommon form of appendicitis caused by anatomical variants such as intestinal malrotation or situs inversus. This presentation can delay diagnosis and increase the risk of complications, requiring a high index of clinical suspicion and imaging confirmation. Case report: We present the case of a 43-year-old male patient with colicky abdominal pain in the lower left quadrant, mild diarrhea, and general discomfort. On examination, a mass was palpated in the left iliac fossa with signs of peritoneal irritation. Laboratory tests revealed leukocytosis and elevated C-reactive protein. Computed tomography (CT) showed an inflamed cecal appendix located in the left iliac fossa and intestinal malrotation. An infraumbilical laparotomy appendectomy was performed, revealing a perforated cecal appendix with an inflammatory phlegmon and purulent discharge. The postoperative course was favorable. LSAA should be considered in cases of unexplained left-sided abdominal pain. Computed tomography is key for diagnosis, and laparoscopy is the ideal approach for managing this condition.