The appendix is a small blind ended tube which extends from the caecum of the large intestine
Its general morphology conforms with the basic gut plan
The appendix differs from other parts of the large intestine by having a very narrow lumen
In addition, the connective tissue of the lamina propria contains a large amount of lymphoid tissue, mainly in the form of nonencapsulated lymph nodules which often merge into one another
This may extend into the submucosa
In the human, the appendix does not play a vital role in the digestive process
However, the lumen may become obstructed and in turn this may lead to infections and inflammation which if untreated can lead to a medical emergency