Your patient is a 19-year-old male complaining of a two-day history of abdominal pain described as diffuse and colicky, located around his umbilical area. He also states a loss of appetite and a low-grade fever over the same period. Palpation of his abdomen reveals tenderness and guarding to the periumbilical area. Of the following, which is the most likely cause of his clinical condition?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The patient's symptoms of abdominal pain, loss of appetite, low-grade fever, and tenderness/guarding around the periumbilical area are all characteristic of appendicitis. Bowel obstruction may present with abdominal pain and tenderness, but guarding is not typically seen. Peptic ulcer disease and cholecystitis may present with abdominal pain, but they do not typically involve guarding or tenderness in the periumbilical area.

Your Patient Is a 19-Year-Old Male Complaining of a Two-Day