The appendix bursts primarily due to untreated appendicitis, which begins when the appendix becomes blocked. This blockage can be caused by a buildup of stool (fecalith), mucus, foreign bodies, or sometimes tumors, which traps bacteria inside the appendix. The trapped bacteria multiply rapidly, causing infection, inflammation, swelling, and pus formation inside the appendix
. As the infection and inflammation worsen, pressure builds up inside the appendix, cutting off blood flow. Without blood supply, the appendix tissue becomes ischemic (starved of oxygen), then necrotic (dies). The weakened, dying walls of the appendix eventually develop holes or tears, leading to rupture or bursting. When the appendix bursts, bacteria and infected material spill into the abdominal cavity, causing severe complications such as peritonitis (infection of the abdominal lining), abscesses, sepsis, and potentially life-threatening conditions
. In summary, the sequence leading to a burst appendix is:
- Blockage of the appendix lumen (by stool, mucus, foreign bodies, or tumors)
- Bacterial infection and rapid multiplication inside the appendix
- Inflammation and swelling causing increased internal pressure
- Loss of blood flow leading to tissue death
- Rupture of the appendix wall, spilling infectious contents into the abdomen
Prompt medical treatment of appendicitis is critical to prevent rupture and its serious complications
