TECHNOLOGYCompositions and Methods for Determining the Likelihood of Appendicitis
Overview
Appendicitis is a condition that is easily treated through the surgical removal of the appendix. However, delays in diagnosis beyond 24-36 hours from the start of symptoms can lead to an increased risk of mortality, morbidity, and costs due to complications. Diagnosis is complicated by the heterogeneous clinical presentation of appendicitis, which can be very similar to many other conditions contributing to a rate of unnecessary appendectomies ranging from 3-30%. This technology is a method to determine the likelihood of appendicitis in a subject using the relative abundance of operational taxonomic unit (OTU) microorganisms in a patient’s appendix and rectum to indicate a high risk of appendicitis in the patient. Researchers used a culture-independent, 16S rRNA gene analysis to analyze the microbiota of pediatric patients either diagnosed with appendicitis or undergoing appendectomy incidental to abdominal surgery for another indication. Comparison of the relative abundance of bacteria in the appendix and rectal samples were cataloged to identify distinct differences in the appendix and rectal microbiota, as well as differences between patients with or without appendicitis (see figure). These microbiota “signatures” may be used to guide the treatment and diagnosis of appendicitis.
Applications
The lifetime risk of appendicitis is estimated at 7-14% and approximately 195,000 - 300,000 people in the US undergo an appendectomy. The wide range in appendectomy reflects the difficulties in diagnosis are often leading to unnecessary surgical procedures. The lack of a definitive diagnostic test increases the associated healthcare cost, as physicians use a combination of blood work results, ultrasound, and computerized tomography (CT) to make their diagnosis. CT is the gold standard for diagnosing appendicitis, used in 98% of patients undergoing appendectomy in the US. However, it carries a significant radiation exposure, which is of particular concern in children, who have the highest rate of misdiagnosis. This technology allows for the determination of the likelihood of appendicitis in a subject without requiring a CT scan or ultrasound, obviating the need for a radiologist or sonographer. This invention is a safer, cheaper alternative to current methods.
Advantages
Cheaper, faster, and more precise than imaging-based tests for appendicitis
Does not require CT or ultrasound equipment nor a highly skilled radiologist or ultrasonographer
Stage of Development
Comparison studies completed with appendix and rectal samples from children undergoing appendectomy, normal appendices and with appendicitis.
(As of 10/2019)- MEW
Licensing Potential
Available for licensing
Available for sponsored research
Contact Info
Office of Technology Transfer
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Baltimore, MD 21201
Email: [email protected]
Phone: (410) 706-2380
