Pediatric Appendicitis: A Leading Missed Diagnosis with Medicolegal Implications
Pediatric appendicitis is a leading missed diagnosis in both clinical practice and medicolegal claims, with significant consequences for children, families, and healthcare providers. Delayed or missed diagnosis is associated with increased risk of perforation, longer hospital stays, and higher morbidity, and is a top cause of malpractice litigation in pediatrics and emergency medicine.
Recent studies demonstrate that appendicitis remains one of the most frequently missed diagnoses in pediatric emergency care, with significant variability in diagnostic accuracy across settings and patient populations.
The key medicolegal risk arises from atypical presentations and failure to pursue appropriate diagnostic workup. Understanding these risks is essential for reducing errors and litigation.
Medical Malpractice · 13 min read · Ralph D. Martello, MD, pediatric hospitalist and medical expert witness.