Authors:

Abstract

Isolated unilateral torsion of a fallopian tube is an infrequent but significant cause of acute lower abdominal pain in a female of reproductive age. We present a literature review and the case of a 41-year old lady who presented with sudden onset right-sided lower abdominal pain radiating to right thigh. Clinical examination revealed tenderness in the right lower quadrant of the abdomen and a tender right adnexal mass was noted on vaginal examination. Transvaginal scan revealed an elongated, multiloculated right adnexal mass and a normal left ovary. No free fluid or ascites were noted. Torsion of a right hydrosalpinx was suspected and an emergency laparoscopy was performed which confirmed the diagnosis and a right salpingectomy was carried out. Isolated torsion of a fallopian tube should be considered in the differential diagnosis of lower abdominal pain in any female of reproductive age, particularly when she has a history of tubal sterilisation, oophorectomy and/or pelvic adhesive disease.

Key words: torsion; fallopian tube; hydrosalpinx; adnexal mass; salpingectomy.

DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.4038/sljog.v33i2.4009

Sri Lanka Journal of Obstetrics and Gynaecology 2011; 33: 63-64

Keywords: torsion, fallopian tube, hydrosalpinx, adnexal mass, salpingectomy.