A rare cause similar to inguinal hernia in pregnancy: Two cases of round ligament varicosity

Abstract

Round ligament varicosities (RLVs) which are a very rare cause of inguinal swelling can mimic an inguinal hernia. RLVs should be considered in the differential diagnosis of inguinal swelling in a female, especially during pregnancy. The diagnosis of RLV can be established on Gray-scale with color Doppler sonography, and, if diagnosed correctly, unnecessary intervention may be prevented. We report two cases of round ligament varicosities in a 30-year-old woman at 30-week gestation and 34-year-old woman at 24-week gestation; these patients were diagnosed using ultrasonography and spontaneously resolved after delivery.