<P> Appendicitis is a condition characterized by inflammation of the appendix . Pain often begins in the center of the abdomen, corresponding to the appendix's development as part of the embryonic midgut . This pain is typically a dull, poorly localized, visceral pain . </P> <P> As the inflammation progresses, the pain begins to localize more clearly to the right lower quadrant, as the peritoneum becomes inflamed . This peritoneal inflammation, or peritonitis, results in rebound tenderness (pain upon removal of pressure rather than application of pressure). In particular, it presents at McBurney's point, 1 / 3 of the way along a line drawn from the anterior superior iliac spine to the umbilicus . Typically, point (skin) pain is not present until the parietal peritoneum is inflamed, as well . Fever and an immune system response are also characteristic of appendicitis . </P> <P> Appendicitis usually requires the removal of the inflamed appendix, in an appendectomy either by laparotomy or laparoscopy . Untreated, the appendix may rupture, leading to peritonitis, followed by shock, and, if still untreated, death . </P> <P> The surgical removal of the appendix is called an appendectomy . This removal is normally performed as an emergency procedure when the patient is suffering from acute appendicitis . In the absence of surgical facilities, intravenous antibiotics are used to delay or avoid the onset of sepsis . In some cases, the appendicitis resolves completely; more often, an inflammatory mass forms around the appendix . This is a relative contraindication to surgery . </P>

The human appendix is an example of a