Which of the following conditions could be a result of untreated appendicitis?

• A. Colon cancer
• B. Peritonitis
• C. Cholecystitis
• D. Kidney stones

Answer: (B)

Untreated appendicitis can lead to peritonitis, which is a serious inflammation of the peritoneum, the tissue lining the abdomen. This condition occurs when the appendix ruptures, spilling infectious materials into the abdominal cavity. The body's response to this infection can cause severe abdominal pain, fever, and potentially life-threatening complications if not addressed promptly.

Peritonitis can complicate an otherwise straightforward case of appendicitis, transforming it into a critical situation requiring immediate medical intervention, often including surgery and antibiotics. Other conditions listed, such as colon cancer, cholecystitis, and kidney stones, do not directly stem from appendicitis and are related to different pathological processes. Hence, peritonitis is clearly the most directly linked consequence of untreated appendicitis.