Hydrocolpos causing bowel obstruction in a preterm newborn: a case report.

Area of Science:

• Pediatric Surgery
• Gynecology
• Neonatology

Background:

• Imperforate hymen is the most common congenital anomaly of the female urogenital tract.
• Clinical presentations vary widely, from asymptomatic cases to severe abdominal masses.
• Hydrocolpos, a common complication, can cause bladder compression, leading to obstructive uropathy and hydronephrosis.

Purpose of the Study:

• To report a case of congenital hydrocolpos presenting as neonatal bowel obstruction.
• To highlight the diagnostic challenges and successful management of this rare condition.

Main Methods:

• Case report of a preterm neonate with suspected bowel obstruction.
• Utilized abdominal ultrasound and magnetic resonance imaging for diagnosis.
• Management involved a conservative approach followed by surgical incision of the imperforate hymen.

Main Results:

• Diagnosis of congenital hydrocolpos secondary to imperforate hymen was confirmed.
• Surgical incision of the imperforate hymen successfully resolved abdominal distention and bowel obstruction.
• Avoided the need for diagnostic laparotomy.

Conclusions:

• Congenital hydrocolpos can present atypically in neonates, mimicking bowel obstruction.
• Early diagnosis and minimally invasive surgical intervention are crucial for favorable outcomes.
• Conservative management followed by hymenal incision is effective in resolving symptoms.