[Abdominal manipulation and other cultural risk factors associated with complication of acute appendicitis in pediatric patients].

Unlabelled: In children, acute appendicitis (AA) is usually mistaken for empacho, which, according to popular belief, is caused by the ingestion of undercooked or cold food causing gastrointestinal symptoms. The empirical treatment is abdominal manipulation, consisting of massages with different maneuvers on the abdominal wall, accompanied by home remedies. The effect of these therapies in the presence of AA is unknown.

Complicated acute appendicitis in pediatric patients with "empacho" and abdominal manipulation history: Case series.

Introduction: According to Latin American popular culture, empacho is a gastrointestinal disease caused by ex cessive intake of cold or under-cooked food. Abdominal manipulation or sobada is one of the popular treatments used for empacho and consists of an abdominal massage, where the skin is rubbed and stretched, applying pressure on the abdomen.

Objectives: To characterize clinical evolution and complications secondary to diagnostic delay in pediatric patients with acute appendicitis, with history of empacho and abdominal manipulation.