It was the first day of spring break in 1992 in Phoenix, and 12-year-old Heather Smith was excited for her family's upcoming ski trip. But before Smith and her family had even packed their snow pants, ...

The appendix is a small tube-like organ attached to the end of the large intestine, near where the small intestine meets it. Modern research suggests it plays a role in intestinal health and immune ...

Your large intestine is made up of several different parts, including your colon, rectum, anal canal, and cecum — a small pouch located in your colon. The appendix is a finger-shaped tube that’s about ...

Symptoms of appendicitis may require emergency medical attention. Without immediate care, the appendix can burst. A burst appendix releases bacteria and pus, which can cause severe complications. The ...

Appendix cancer is a rare type of cancer that grows in the appendix. There are several different types of appendix cancer, and a person often experiences no symptoms in the early stages. The appendix ...

Untreated appendicitis may cause your appendix to rupture (burst), resulting in an infection. Symptoms associated with a ruptured appendix include severe abdominal pain, fever, chills, and weakness.