Transvaginal Ultrasonographic Identification of Appendicitis in a Setting of Chronic Pelvic Pain and Endometriosis

Abstract

Our patient had a history of chronic endometriosis and pelvic pain and complained of recent onset of right-sided abdominal pain, nausea, and vomiting. Transvaginal ultrasonography revealed a thick-walled mass superior and medial to the right ovary, which was thought to be an inflamed appendix. The woman was not pregnant, and the structure appeared to be anatomically separate from the uterus. Subsequent laparoscopy confirmed the diagnosis of acute appendicitis; uncomplicated laparoscopic appendectomy followed. In the setting of chronic endometriosis, other nongynecologic sources of acute pelvic pain must be considered. Surgical intervention is appropriate whenever clinical suspicion for an acute abdomen is high, and the a priori diagnosis of endometriosis should not result in operative delay.