Evaluation of Alvarado score in diagnosing acute appendicitis

Using a practical scoring system for diagnosing acute appendicitis can help reduce the rate of unnecessary surgery. This prospective study was carried out to evaluate Alvarado scoring system for diagnosing of acute appendicitis in our set up. Out of total 100 patients, appendicitis was confirmed in 80 patients, thus giving negative appendectomy rate of 20% (male 6%, female 14%). Perforation rate was 4%. Positive predictive value was 89%. The sensitivity was 54% and specificity 75%. Alvarado score is not a sensitive tool for aiding diagnosis of acute appendicitis.