Introduction: The definition of recurrent appendicitis requires a history of similar, recurrent right iliac fossa pain leading to appendectomy, with the histological confirmation of inflammation of the appendix. Subsequently, there should be complete resolution of symptoms after removal of the appendix.

Materials & Methods: Data were collected from the patient’s admission records. Recurrent appendicitis is defined as patients who had previous history of similar, recurrent right iliac fossa pain leading to appendectomy and histological confirmation of appendicular inflammation was done. Further information including number of previous episodes, number of previous admissions and subsequent treatment was collected.

Results: There were 450 patients who underwent appendix surgery during the review period. Seventy patients had normal appendices and so were excluded. Of the 360 patients with appendicitis, there were 275 males and 95 females between six to 90 years old. Fifty five patients had a history and clinical course that fit the definition of recurrent appendicitis. Twenty five of the fifty five patients had one previous episode of pain while fifteen had two prior episodes and rest had multiple episodes.

Discussion & Conclusions: Recurrent appendicitis accounts for about 17% of acute appendicitis in our institution. History of recurrent episodes of right iliac fossa pain typical of appendicitis should be sought in patient with suspected appendicitis and should alert the clinician to the possibility of recurrent appendicitis. It is important to consider recurrent appendicitis as a differential diagnosis in patient with recurring right iliac fossa pain.