What is the small, tubular structure attached to the lower border of the cecum in the abdomen called?

The small, tubular structure attached to the lower border of the cecum in the abdomen is known as the appendix. This narrow, finger-like pouch plays a role in the immune system and gut flora management, although its exact function is still a subject of study. It is located at the junction of the small and large intestines, making it an important anatomical landmark in the digestive system.

Understanding the anatomy of this region helps in diagnosing various conditions, particularly appendicitis, which is an inflammation of the appendix. This condition often presents with specific symptoms such as abdominal pain that typically starts around the navel and then moves to the lower right abdomen, alongside nausea and vomiting.

In contrast, the colon refers to a larger section of the large intestine, the gallbladder serves to store bile which aids in digestion, and the spleen is an organ involved in filtering blood and immune responses. Each of these structures has distinct roles and anatomical relationships that differentiate them from the appendix.