# The Appendix --- The **appendix** is a secondary [[lymphatic system|lymphatic organ]] that is attached inferiorly to the [[large intestine|cecum]]. It also houses beneficial [[normal microbiota]] that helps the colon function. If the appendix becomes inflamed—a condition called **appendicitis**—and is left untreated it can eventually rupture, spilling it's contents into the [[peritoneum]] leading to a very dangerous condition called **peritonitis**. ## Assessing the Appendix The appendix can be [[abdominal assessment|palpated]] by finding the top of the iliac crest, and moving halfway to the umbilicus. If you press in **Rebound tenderness** is when a person does not have pain when you press down on the appendix, but then *does* have pain when the pressure is released. This is a cardinal sign of **appendicitis** ## Problems with the Appendix - [[appendicitis]] ___