Most people know only two things about the appendix: You don’t need it – and if it bursts, you need surgery fast. That basic ...

For more than a century, the human appendix has been written off as a biological relic, a shrunken leftover from plant-eating ancestors that serves no real purpose. That view is now outdated. A ...

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 ...

The GI tract is a complex group of organs, each of which helps your body digest and absorb food. Your upper GI tract includes your esophagus, stomach, and the first section of your small intestine, ...

For over a century, the appendix was considered a vestigial organ. However, recent research reveals it evolved multiple times across mammals, suggesting it provided an advantage. This pouch contains ...

We’re all familiar with the fact that we have an organ called an appendix—and more importantly that it can cause some scary trips to the ER. But does anyone know what the eff an appendix actually is?

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.

We're all familiar with the fact that we have an organ called an appendix—and more importantly that it can cause some scary trips to the ER. But does anyone know what the appendix really is? Here are ...