Abdominal cocoon associated with endometriosis.
V M Santos1, E R Barbosa, S H M Lima
1Department of Internal Medicine, Catholic University Medical Course, Armed Forces Hospital, Estrada do Contorno do Bosque s/n, Brasilia DF, Brazil. vitorinomodesto@gmail.com
Singapore Medical Journal
|August 31, 2007
Summary
Abdominal cocoon, a rare cause of intestinal obstruction, can coexist with ovarian endometriosis. Early diagnosis through awareness of symptoms and imaging is crucial for better patient outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Gastroenterology
- Surgical Pathology
- Reproductive Endocrinology
Background:
- Abdominal cocoon is a rare condition causing intestinal obstruction in adults.
- Diagnosis often occurs during surgery for recurrent small bowel obstruction.
- Ovarian endometriosis is a common gynecological condition.
Observation:
- A case of a 40-year-old infertile woman presenting with intestinal obstruction and massive haemoserous ascites.
- The patient exhibited symptoms including abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, and a palpable mass.
- Imaging revealed small bowel obstruction and thickened peritoneum, suggesting coexistent conditions.
Findings:
- The patient was diagnosed with both abdominal cocoon and ovarian endometriosis.
- These coexisting conditions led to massive haemoserous ascites and intestinal obstruction.
- The diagnosis was confirmed during surgical intervention.
Implications:
- Increased awareness of abdominal cocoon and its association with other conditions like endometriosis is vital.
- Early diagnosis through clinical suspicion and advanced imaging can improve management.
- Prompt surgical intervention can lead to better outcomes for patients with complex abdominal pathologies.
Related Concept Videos
02:07Oogenesis
In human women, oogenesis produces one mature egg cell or ovum for every precursor cell that enters meiosis. This process differs in two unique ways from the equivalent procedure of spermatogenesis in males. First, meiotic divisions during oogenesis are asymmetric, meaning that a large oocyte (containing most of the cytoplasm) and minor polar body are produced as a result of meiosis I, and again following meiosis II. Since only oocytes will go on to form embryos if fertilized, this unequal...
01:26Ovaries
The ovaries are roughly the size of almonds and measure approximately 2 to 3 centimeters in length. These paired structures are situated within the pelvic region and are anchored by the mesovarium—a peritoneal extension that also connects them to the wider structure of the broad ligament. The support system extends to the suspensory ligament, housing blood and lymphatic vessels. In addition, the ovarian ligament tethers the ovaries to the uterus.
On the ovarian surface, a layer of cuboidal...
On the ovarian surface, a layer of cuboidal...
01:19Appendicitis
Appendicitis is an acute inflammatory condition of the vermiform appendix, most commonly caused by obstruction of its lumen. The appendix is a narrow, blind-ended pouch that extends from the cecum, making it particularly prone to obstruction. Causes include fecaliths, lymphoid hyperplasia (often after viral infections), parasites, tumors, or foreign bodies. This obstruction initiates a cascade of pathological changes.Luminal Obstruction and Early InflammationAfter obstruction, normal mucosal...
01:27Ovarian Cycle
The menstrual cycle includes a critical component known as the ovarian cycle, which undergoes two main phases each month—the follicular phase and the luteal phase. The follicular phase is variable and averaging around 14 days. Ovulation, triggered by a surge in luteinizing hormone (LH), marks the transition between the two phases. The second phase, the luteal phase, is relatively consistent, lasting approximately 14 days, and is marked by the activity of the corpus luteum. While a cycle length...
01:22Appendicitis-I: Introduction
The appendix, a small, narrow, blind tube extending from the inferior part of the cecum, is widely regarded as a vestigial organ, having lost much of its original function through evolution. Despite its diminished role, the appendix can become inflamed, a condition known as appendicitis.
Etiology: Appendicitis can arise from various causes, primarily rooted in the obstruction of the appendix lumen. Factors contributing to this obstruction include fecal accumulation, lymphoid hyperplasia and, in...
Etiology: Appendicitis can arise from various causes, primarily rooted in the obstruction of the appendix lumen. Factors contributing to this obstruction include fecal accumulation, lymphoid hyperplasia and, in...
01:24Disorders of the Female Reproductive System
The female reproductive system can be affected by several disorders, including Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS), Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD), endometriosis, and various forms of cancer. PMS and PMDD are cyclical conditions that cause physical and emotional distress, with symptoms that include edema, mood swings, and food cravings. PMDD is a more severe form of PMS characterized by increased symptom severity that peaks during the luteal phase and tends to improve or resolve shortly after...