C-reactive protein expression in adipose tissue of children with acute appendicitis

OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study is to gain insights into the role of visceral adipose tissue as a source of C-reactive protein (CRP) in acute inflammation and to explore the potential relationship of CRP expression with the severity of appendicitis. METHODS: A total of 20 pediatric patients undergoing appendectomy were included in the study. Patients were divided into two groups according to appendicitis severity (uncomplicated and complicated). CRP levels were measured in visceral fat samples by western blotting, as well as in serum by biochemical testing. RESULTS: CRP was found to be expressed in visceral adipose tissue. The adipose tissue of patients with complicated appendicitis showed significantly higher CRP levels (p = 0.002) compared to patients with uncomplicated appendicitis. These results mirrored the CRP values obtained in serum (p = 0.018). CONCLUSION: In childhood, visceral adipose tissue is a source of CRP in acute inflammation, and its expression is potentially associated with the severity of local inflammation.