Fitz-Hugh and Curtis syndrome

Area of Science:

• Medicine
• Infectious Diseases
• Gynecology

Background:

• Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) is a common infection that can lead to serious complications.
• Fitz-Hugh and Curtis syndrome (FHCS) is characterized by inflammation of the liver capsule and surrounding peritoneal surfaces.
• FHCS can present with subtle symptoms, leading to diagnostic challenges.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the incidence of presumptive Fitz-Hugh and Curtis syndrome in patients treated for pelvic inflammatory disease.
• To highlight cases where Fitz-Hugh and Curtis syndrome was misdiagnosed as gallbladder disease.
• To discuss the subtle clinical presentation of Fitz-Hugh and Curtis syndrome.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective review of 124 patients treated for pelvic inflammatory disease.
• Analysis of patient records over a 12-month period.
• Case review of three patients undergoing laparotomy for suspected gallbladder disease.

Main Results:

• Fifteen cases of presumptive Fitz-Hugh and Curtis syndrome were identified among 124 patients with pelvic inflammatory disease.
• Three patients initially suspected of having gallbladder disease were diagnosed with Fitz-Hugh and Curtis syndrome during laparotomy.
• The study underscores the potential for misdiagnosis due to the subtle presentation of FHCS.

Conclusions:

• Fitz-Hugh and Curtis syndrome is a notable complication of pelvic inflammatory disease.
• Diagnostic vigilance is crucial for Fitz-Hugh and Curtis syndrome, especially when symptoms mimic other abdominal conditions.
• Understanding the subtle presentation of FHCS can improve timely diagnosis and treatment.