This case demonstrates typical sonographic findings of acute appendicitis. The patient went to theater for an appendectomy and histology confirmed early acute appendicitis.

Undertaking the study may identify appendicitis and also allow for the assessment of other possible causes for symptoms (such as a ovarian cyst in females), but if the appendix is not visualized it does not exclude appendicitis.

It is important for radiology and clinical colleagues alike to understand that as with ultrasound for concerns over testicular torsion, absence of positive findings doesn't exclude appendicitis.