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Transitional cell carcinoma presenting as clitoral priapism.
Sarah DiGiorgi1, Peter F Schnatz, Srinivas Mandavilli
1The University of Connecticut School of Medicine, Farmington, CT 06030, USA.
Gynecologic Oncology
|April 22, 2004
Summary
Clitoral priapism, a rare cause of clitoromegaly, presents as persistent clitoral engorgement. This case highlights pelvic tumors as a potential underlying etiology requiring thorough investigation.
Area of Science:
- Urology
- Gynecologic Oncology
- Pathology
Background:
- Clitoral priapism is an uncommon condition causing clitoromegaly.
- It is characterized by clitoral engorgement, pain, and irritation without sexual stimulation.
- Suspect clitoral priapism in cases of unexplained clitoromegaly, especially when hirsutism is absent.
Observation:
- A 48-year-old female presented with symptoms necessitating bladder catheterization.
- She exhibited significant clitoromegaly (5 x 2.5 cm) consistent with priapism.
- An associated 8 x 10 cm pelvic mass was identified.
Findings:
- Biopsy of the pelvic mass revealed transitional cell carcinoma with a papillary squamous component.
- This finding suggests a link between the pelvic tumor and the clitoral priapism.
- Clitoral priapism can be associated with pelvic malignancies.
Implications:
- Pelvic tumors are a critical, though less common, etiology of clitoral priapism.
- This case underscores the importance of investigating pelvic masses in patients with clitoral priapism.
- Identifying the underlying cause, such as pelvic venous or lymphatic obstruction, is crucial for management.