Lithopedion in a Geriatric Patient

Area of Science:

• Reproductive Medicine
• Pathology
• Medical Imaging

Background:

• Lithopedion is a rare sequela of ectopic pregnancy, occurring when a fetus, unable to be expelled or resorbed, becomes calcified.
• This condition affects approximately 1.5-1.8% of ectopic pregnancies and 0.00045% of all pregnancies.

Observation:

• A case of lithopedion is presented in a 77-year-old woman.
• The calcified fetus was incidentally discovered in the left pelvic region.
• The lithopedion is presumed to have been retained for approximately 40 years.

Findings:

• The study highlights an incidental finding of a lithopedion in an elderly patient.
• The case underscores the potential for long-term asymptomatic retention of a lithopedion.

Implications:

• This case contributes to the understanding of lithopedion prevalence and long-term consequences.
• It emphasizes the importance of considering rare diagnoses in cases with prolonged, unexplained symptoms or incidental findings.
• The case may inform diagnostic approaches and management strategies for lithopedion in clinical practice.