Although studies in the adult literature and case series in the pediatric literature have reported delays in medical care attributable to COVID-19, we report a statistically significant increased rate of appendiceal perforation during this pandemic.

Over the 3 months studied, parents displayed visible signs of anxiety when in the emergency department and openly expressed reluctance to visit the hospital for fear of contracting COVID-19.

Unlike their adult counterparts, pediatric patients do not commonly experience medical conditions with a high risk of mortality. However, medical conditions do exist for which delayed diagnosis and management can lead to a significant increase in morbidity, prolonged hospitalization, and increased financial expense.

In this cross-sectional study, appendiceal perforation also resulted in pelvic abscess, bowel obstruction, and sepsis.

During the 10-week study period, 90 children were diagnosed with acute appendicitis; perforation had occurred in 35 cases (39%).

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