Massive ovarian edema, due to adjacent appendicitis.

Area of Science:

• Reproductive medicine
• Surgical pathology
• Diagnostic imaging

Background:

• Massive ovarian edema (MOE) is a rare, benign condition.
• Imaging findings of MOE can be mistaken for ovarian torsion or adnexal masses.
• Prompt diagnosis is crucial to avoid fertility-compromising surgery in young women.

Observation:

• A young woman presented with subacute abdominal pain and a markedly enlarged right ovary.
• Initial workup suggested a primary adnexal process.
• Further investigations revealed the ovarian enlargement was secondary to subacute appendicitis.

Findings:

• Ultrasound and MRI demonstrated significant ovarian enlargement.
• Diagnostic laparoscopy confirmed subacute appendicitis as the underlying cause of ovarian edema.
• This case underscores the importance of considering secondary causes of ovarian enlargement.

Implications:

• Accurate diagnosis of massive ovarian edema is vital for appropriate management.
• Recognizing MOE can prevent unnecessary ovarian surgeries.
• Considering associated pathologies, like appendicitis, is essential when MOE is suspected.