The appendix (or vermiform appendix; also cecal (or caecal) appendix; also vermix) is a blind-ended tube connected

to the cecum (or caecum), from which it develops embryologically. The cecum is a pouchlike structure of the colon. The appendix is located near the junction of the small intestine and the large intestine.

Arteries of cecum and vermiform appendix. (Appendix visible at lower right, labeled as "vermiform process".

 Appendicitis is an inflammation of the appendix, a 3 1/2-inch-long tube of tissue that extends from the large intestine.

 The most common appendicitis symptom: pain in the lower right quadrant of abdomen. More specifically, between your navel and pelvic bone. This area and the surrounding area are extremely painful to the touch. In addition, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, loss of appetite, fatigue and lethargy.

Graded compression ultrasound of the right lower quadrant reveals a non-compressible, enlarged appendix (arrows). Definition of the bowel wall layers, particularly the echogenic submucosa, is lost, suggesting perforation

Graded compression ultrasound of the right lower quadrant in transverse plane, reveals a calcified appendicolith (arrow) within the dilated appendix . Note the well-defined posterior acoustic shadow (small arrows) in relation to the appendicolith.

Graded compression ultrasound of the right lower quadrant in transverse plane, reveals a calcified appendicolith (arrow) within the dilated appendix . Note the well-defined posterior acoustic shadow (small arrows) in relation to the appendicolith.