Acute appendicitis in a chimpanzee (Pan troglodytes)

Background A 7-year old, female chimpanzee (Pan troglodytes) developed acute abdominal pain and anorexia. An irregular, mineral opacity was identified in the caudal right quadrant of the abdomen on radiographs and computed tomography scan, which appeared to be in the region of the cecal appendage. Results and conclusions A diagnosis of acute appendicitis was made based on clinical signs, abnormal haematology findings, and consultation with a human radiologist. Exploratory laparotomy was performed and the cecal appendage was removed. On histologic examination, the mucosal epithelium contained eosinophilic and neutrophilic inflammation. The inflammation extended through the tunica muscularis to the serosal surface and adjacent mesentery. The histologic findings were consistent with acute appendicitis in humans. The chimpanzee recovered well from surgery with immediate improvement in clinical signs and no post-operative complications.