What will happen if you have a ruptured appendix and it goes unrecognized?

Death: Appendiceal rupture is seldom without dramatic symptoms, and is relatively easily recognized on ct scanning even if examination is non-classic. If you are concerned, and have not yet pursued evaluation then please get checked.

Depends: If u have surgery quickly, not much. However, if not treated quickly u may develop a bad system wide infection and may actually die. If not, you may have a long complicated course with multiple abscesses requiring return trips to the operating room and other long term problems. Some very lucky people perforate but the body "walls-off" the infection which can then b drained via ct scan.

Usually an abscess: When the appendix ruptures bacteria are released into the abdomen around the appendix, causing an abscess. The appendix itself may not have adequate blood supply and cause gangrene of the bowel in the area. Chronic pain or death may occur.