Chlamydia and Perihepatitis (Fitz-Hugh-Curtis Syndrome) in an 18-Year-Old Male: A Case Report

Area of Science:

• Hepatology
• Infectious Diseases
• Gastroenterology

Background:

• Perihepatitis, inflammation of the liver capsule, is a known complication of pelvic inflammatory disease (PID).
• It typically affects women and can lead to significant intraabdominal adhesions and complications.
• This condition involves inflammation extending to the surface of the liver, often associated with upper abdominal pain.

Observation:

• An 18-year-old male presented with a three-month history of abdominal pain.
• Initial diagnosis upon admission was peritonitis.
• Imaging studies revealed extraluminal air within the liver vasculature, a critical finding.

Findings:

• The patient tested positive for *Chlamydia trachomatis*.
• This led to a confirmed diagnosis of chlamydia infection.
• The clinical presentation and diagnostic findings were consistent with perihepatitis in a male patient.

Implications:

• This case underscores the importance of recognizing pelvic inflammatory disease-like intraabdominal infections in males.
• Chlamydia can cause serious intraabdominal complications in men, not just women.
• Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial to prevent potential lifelong intraabdominal complications.