Crohn's disease of the appendix: report of a case and review of the literature.

A case of Crohn's disease of the appendix that simulated a cecal tumor is presented and 27 additional cases are reviewed. Crohn's disease of the appendix most commonly occurs in the younger patient, with 90 per cent in the second and third decades of life. Before operation, appendicitis or an appendiceal abscess is commonly diagnosed. Appendectomy should be performed, if possible; otherwise a limited ileocolectomy should be done. These patients should have a long-term follow-up program because inflammation can develop later in any part of the bowel. Crohn's disease of the appendix should be included in the differential diagnosis of pain or a palpable mass in the right lower quadrant, especially in the young adult patient.