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International Journal of Colorectal Disease

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Open Access 01-12-2024 | Appendicitis | RESEARCH

Is there a link between appendicitis and the risk of diverticular disease?: a large German cohort study

Authors: Sarah Krieg, Ernst W. Kolbe, Sven H. Loosen, Christoph Roderburg, Andreas Krieg, Karel Kostev

Published in: International Journal of Colorectal Disease | Issue 1/2024

Abstract

Purpose

Appendicitis, characterized by inflammation of the vermiform appendix, is a common abdominal emergency necessitating appendectomy. Recent evidence suggests a potential link between appendicitis and subsequent diverticular disease, yet population-based studies investigating this association are limited.

Methods

Utilizing the Disease Analyzer database encompassing data from over 1000 primary care practices in Germany, we conducted a retrospective cohort study. We included 25,379 adults diagnosed with appendicitis and an equal number of matched controls without appendicitis. The incidence of diverticular disease over a 10-year follow-up period was compared between the two cohorts. Cox regression analysis was performed to assess the association between appendicitis and diverticular disease, adjusting for potential confounders.

Results

Our findings revealed a significant association between appendicitis and subsequent diverticular disease (HR: 1.76; 95% CI: 1.57–1.97), with an increased risk observed across all age groups. Notably, this association was stronger in men (HR: 2.00; 95% CI: 1.68–2.37) than in women (HR: 1.58; 95% CI: 1.36–1.84). The cumulative 10-year incidence of diverticular disease was higher in patients with appendicitis (6.5%) compared to those without (3.6%). Additionally, we observed a clear age-dependent increase in the incidence of diverticular disease.

Conclusion

This large-scale population-based study provides valuable insights into the interaction between appendicitis and diverticular disease. The study underscores the need for further research elucidating the underlying mechanisms linking appendicitis to diverticular disease. Probiotics emerge as a potential therapeutic avenue warranting exploration in the management of both conditions. These findings have important implications for clinical practice, highlighting the importance of considering appendicitis as a potential risk factor for diverticular disease, particularly in men. Further investigation is warranted to validate these findings and explore potential therapeutic interventions targeting the shared pathophysiological pathways underlying both conditions.

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Title: Is there a link between appendicitis and the risk of diverticular disease?: a large German cohort study
Authors: Sarah Krieg
Ernst W. Kolbe
Sven H. Loosen
Christoph Roderburg
Andreas Krieg
Karel Kostev
Publication date: 01-12-2024
Publisher: Springer Berlin Heidelberg
Keywords: Appendicitis
Appendicitis
Appendectomy
Respiratory Microbiota
Published in: International Journal of Colorectal Disease / Issue 1/2024
Print ISSN: 0179-1958
Electronic ISSN: 1432-1262
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s00384-024-04624-9

Keynote webinar | Spotlight on medication adherence

Springer Medicine

Is there a link between appendicitis and the risk of diverticular disease?: a large German cohort study

Abstract

Purpose

Methods

Results

Conclusion

Keynote webinar | Spotlight on medication adherence

Springer Medicine

Abstract

Purpose

Methods

Results

Conclusion

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