Acute appendicitis is severe inflammation of the appendix associated with acute onset of pain in the right side of the abdomen, fever, decreased appetite and vomiting. It is common in all age groups but severe in children and elderly. It is diagnosed after doing an ultrasound of the abdomen and raised wbc counts. It can be confused in children with typhoid infection of intestines. It can sometimes be life threatening if it ruptures in the abdomen. Treatment of acute appendicitis is surgery which is laparoscopic appendicectomy. It is associated with faster recovery and early return to work. If not treated in time, it can lead to fecal peritonitis and death. Prevention is by timely diagnosis and treatment.