Ovarian abscess as a complication of assisted reproduction techniques: a case report

AMP makes true great strides these last decades. Logically some complications were noticed even due to ovarian puncture such as hemorrhage, perforation or infection. The aim of this report is to try, through a review of literature, to draw the attention of physicians to a rare entity, ovarian abscess after follicle aspiration for in-vitro fertilization, and to means of prevention.

We report a 38-year-old woman who was plainting from lower abdominal pain located in the left iliac fossa one month after failed IVF trial. The pain was associated with fever and vomiting. The patient's past medical history involves 2 myomectomys (2003-2007). On admission, her temperature was 38.9 degrees C and her blood pressure was 90/60 mm Hg. Physical examination found nondistended abdomen. Tenderness to deep palpation in the left lower quadrant, without peritoneal signs, was detected. No masses were palpated. Mild tenderness in the left cul-de-sac was found. A full blood count showed a white cell count of 17,500 cells/mm3 with 84.5% polymorph nuclear cells, CRP 173 mg/dl. Pelvic ultrasound shows a left latero uterine mass; right ovary and the uterus are unremarkable; there was no free abdominal fluid. The laparotomy was performed 24 hours later and a left ovarian abscess was found. The treatment was conservative. Antibiotics were associated during 15 days. The clinical evolution was satisfying.

The ovarian puncture might be technically difficult, incomplete, and even impossible which exposes to a greater infection risk. An ultrasound evaluation of ovarian accessibility is necessary before starting an IVF attempt, especially in case of overweight or history of abdominal or pelvic surgery, endometriosis, tubal abnormalities or myomas. The treatment is based on surgery and antibiotics.