Abdominal Mondor disease mimicking acute appendicitis

Area of Science:

• Vascular Surgery
• Gastroenterology
• Sports Medicine

Background:

• Mondor disease (MD) is a rare superficial thrombophlebitis affecting thoraco-epigastric veins.
• While commonly associated with breast pathologies, MD is infrequently reported as a cause of abdominal pain.

Purpose of the Study:

• To highlight a rare case of Mondor disease presenting as acute appendicitis in a marathon runner.
• To emphasize the importance of considering MD in the differential diagnosis of unclear right lower quadrant pain.

Main Methods:

• Case report of a marathon runner with right iliac fossa pain.
• Clinical evaluation, including Alvarado score, and diagnostic investigations were performed.
• Diagnosis of Mondor disease was established after excluding other causes.

Main Results:

• The patient presented with symptoms mimicking acute appendicitis.
• Despite initial presentation, the Alvarado score did not favor appendicitis, prompting further investigation.
• Mondor disease was ultimately diagnosed.

Conclusions:

• Mondor disease should be considered in the differential diagnosis of right lower quadrant pain, especially when acute appendicitis is excluded.
• Increased awareness of MD can prevent misdiagnosis, reduce unnecessary imaging, and lower healthcare costs.
• This case underscores the importance of considering rare conditions in clinical practice.