Seasonal variation of acute appendicitis

OBJECTIVE: To determine the seasonal variation of acute appendicitis. METHODS: A total of 320 patients fulfilling the inclusion criteria were enrolled in the study after getting the written informed consent. Appendectomies were performed by consultant surgeons and residents. After surgery histopathological examination of specimens was performed by consultant Histopathologists at Armed Forces Institute of Pathology Rawalpindi and CMH Peshawar. The patients presenting in different four seasons September to November as autumn, December to February as winter, March to May as spring, June to August as summer, were compared to determine seasonal variations. RESULTS: In our study out of all 320 patients 188 (58.75%) were males and 132 (41.25%) were females. Sixty patients (18.75 %) presented in autumn season (Sep-Nov), 52 patients (16.25%) in winter season (Dec-Feb), 78 (24.25%) patients in Spring season (Mar-May).130 (40.62%) patients presented in Summer season (Jun-Aug). There was almost 24.37% increased incidence in summer as compared to winter season, 21.87% increased incidence as compared to autumn season, 16.37% increased incidence as compared to spring season. CONCLUSION: Acute appendicitis incidence is increased in summer months in Pakistan. Preventive measures can be taken during summer season (June to Aug) to decrease morbidity and mortality associated with this disease.