Question

The mucosa of the appendix contains masses of lymphoid tissue (MALT) and therefore leukocytes capable of attacking bacteria are present in the appendix. During appendicitis, bacteria trapped in the lumen of the appendix are not effectively attacked because ______.

Answer 1

Answer: There is an inadequate blood supply to the appendix wall

Explanation: The appendix is a tube-shaped sac that's attached to the large intestine. It exists in humans and a small number of other mammals, including the koala and apes. In medical terms, it’s referred to as 'vermiform appendix' for its thin, worm-like shape.

According to researchers, the human digestive system is full of bacteria necessary to digest food. [1] When attack from diseases, sometimes these important kinds of bacteria are purged or killed off. In such situations, the appendix can act as a reserve for good bacteria. After the immune system beats off the disease, the bacteria emerge and re-colonize the gut.

During appendicitis, bacteria trapped in the lumen of the appendix are not effectively attacked because of the inadequate blood supply to the appendix wall. Therefore leukocytes are not able to migrate to the site of infection to attack the bacteria.