What physiological process is commonly believed to initiate acute appendicitis?

The physiological process commonly believed to initiate acute appendicitis is obstruction. In the case of appendicitis, the obstruction typically occurs in the appendiceal lumen. This blockage can be caused by various factors such as fecaliths (hardened stool), lymphoid hyperplasia, foreign bodies, or tumors. When the lumen is obstructed, mucus builds up within the appendix, leading to increased intraluminal pressure. This creates an environment that favors bacterial growth, and as the bacteria multiply, they can lead to inflammation of the appendiceal wall, resulting in acute appendicitis. Consequently, understanding that obstruction is the primary trigger for this condition helps in diagnosing and managing appendicitis effectively.