title: Appendicular Perforation in a Neonate Masquerading as Testicular Torsion.
abstract: BACKGROUND
  Neonatal appendicitis is difficult to diagnose, and is associated with high mortality.
  
  
  METHODS
  A preterm (33 wk) neonate developed abdominal distension feeding intolerance and erythema of left inguinal region on day 4 of life.
  
  
  METHODS
  Testicular torsion was suspected but inguinal exploration revealed normal testis with feco-purulent fluid draining into processus vaginalis from peritoneal cavity. Laparotomy revealed inflamed and perforated appendix. Appendectomy and intravenous antibiotics led to a recovery.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  Appendicitis in a neonate can rarely present with inguinal symptoms, masquerading as testicular torsion.
authors.affiliation: Departments of Neonatology and *Paediatric Surgery, Christian Medical College, Vellore, Tamilnadu, India. Correspondence to: Dr Sridhar Santhanam, Professor, Department of Neonatology, 3rd floor; ISSCC Building, Christian Medical College, Vellore, Tamilnadu, India. santhanamsridhar@gmail.com.
authors.forename: Nelby George
authors.initials: NG
authors.lastname: Mathew
authors.forename: T
authors.initials: T
authors.lastname: Abiramalatha
authors.forename: Harshjeet
authors.initials: H
authors.lastname: Singh
authors.forename: Sridhar
authors.initials: S
authors.lastname: Santhanam
mesh_terms: D001064:Appendicitis / Q000175:diagnosis*; D003937:Diagnosis, Differential; D006801:Humans; D007231:Infant, Newborn; D007232:Infant, Newborn, Diseases / Q000175:diagnosis*; D008297:Male; D013086:Spermatic Cord Torsion