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Pelvic abscesses in postmenopausal women.
S A Vasilev1, S Roy, D J Essin
1Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Southern California School of Medicine, Los Angeles.
Surgery, Gynecology & Obstetrics
|September 1, 1989
Summary
Postmenopausal pelvic abscesses often link to bleeding or uterine procedures. Early surgery is vital, as diagnosis can be challenging, with potential links to intra-abdominal issues or gynecologic cancers.
Area of Science:
- Gynecology
- Surgical Oncology
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Pelvic abscesses in postmenopausal women present diagnostic and therapeutic challenges.
- Previous studies have not fully elucidated the diverse etiologies and associations of these abscesses.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the clinical characteristics, predisposing factors, and outcomes of pelvic abscesses in postmenopausal women.
- To identify potential associations with gynecologic malignancies and intra-abdominal pathology.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective case series of 17 postmenopausal women treated for pelvic abscesses.
- Review of clinical presentations, diagnostic workup, treatment, and outcomes.
Main Results:
- Nine patients had recent postmenopausal bleeding or uterine instrumentation.
- Four abscesses were linked to intra-abdominal conditions; six had poorly controlled diabetes.
- Two malignancies (ovarian and cervical cancer) were diagnosed postoperatively.
Conclusions:
- Postmenopausal pelvic abscesses frequently occur with postmenopausal bleeding.
- Associated intra-abdominal infections or genital tract malignancies should be considered.
- Prompt surgical intervention is recommended for optimal patient management.