Small bowel gastrointestinal stromal tumor disguised as an adnexal mass: a source for midgut volvulus

The abdominal cavity has an infinite number of potential pathologies and gynecologic pathology is often intertwined with intestinal disease.

A 74-year-old female believed to have an adnexal mass on prior imaging presented with small bowel obstruction, which failed to resolve with non-operative management. Given her suspected adnexal mass, multidisciplinary operative intervention was arranged. She was found to have a large, extraluminal mass on her small intestines; serving as the lead point for her midgut volvulus and resultant small bowel obstruction.

Physical exam and radiographic discordance should prompt consideration of alternative diagnoses. Making the appropriate initial diagnosis is key in correct patient management; however, this is not always possible and appropriate pre-operative planning should be arranged for best patient outcomes.