Vermiform appendix

In human anatomy, the vermiform appendix (or appendix) is a blind ended tube connected to the cecum. It develops embryologically from the cecum. In adults, the appendix averages 10 cm in length but can range from 2-20 cm. The diameter of the appendix is usually less than 7-8 mm. While the base of the appendix is at a fairly constant location, the location of the tip of the appendix can vary from being retrocaecal to being in the pelvis to being extraperitoneal. In most people, the appendix is located at the lower right quadrant of the abdomen. In people with situs inversus, the appendix may be located in the lower left side.

Related Topics:
Human anatomy - Cecum - Pelvis - Extraperitoneal - Situs inversus

~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Currently, the function of the appendix, if any, remains controversial in the field of human physiology.

~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Hypothesized functions for the appendix include lymphatic, exocrine, endocrine, and neuromuscular. However, most physicians and scientists believe the appendix lacks significant function, and that it exists primarily as a vestigial remnant of the larger cellulose-digesting cecum found in our herbivorous ancestors.

Related Topics:
Lymphatic - Exocrine - Endocrine - Neuromuscular - Vestigial - Cellulose - Herbivorous

~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~

An operation to remove the appendix is an appendicectomy.

~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~

The most common diseases of the appendix (in humans) are appendicitis and carcinoid.

Related Topics:
Appendicitis - Carcinoid

~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~

The longest appendix ever removed was that of a Pakistani man on June 11, 2003, at Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences, Islamabad, Pakistan, measuring 23.5 cm (9.2 in) in length. {{an|record}}

~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~