Tubo ovarian abscess (pelvic abscess)

About Tubo ovarian abscess (pelvic abscess)

A collection of infectious material that is present in the ovaries and/or the fallopian tubes (the tubes that carry the egg from the ovaries to the uterus). The infection usually starts as a cervical infection from a sexually transmitted disease, then extends into the ovaries and tubes (pelvic inflammatory disease). As the infection progresses an abscess is formed. This infection is very serious and can lead to infertility.

Symptoms

Lower abdominal pain that gradually gets worse, fever, nausea, vomiting, back pain, painful intercourse.

Tests & Diagnostics

A history and physical exam will be performed. Tests to establish the diagnosis and define the extent of the disease include: imaging such as ultrasound or CT scan, cervical cultures, and/or laparoscopy. Needle biopsy of the abscess under CT guidance may be performed to get material for culture.

Common tests: BHCG, Complete blood count (CBC), Comprehensive metabolic panel (CMP), CT Scan, Urinalysis (UA), Ultrasound.

Conventional treatment summary

Therapy depends on the severity of disease and includes: hospital admission, antibiotics, percutaneous drainage of the abscess, and/or surgery.

Medical specialties

Obstetrics and Gynecology

This page is educational content, not medical advice. Always consult a qualified clinician for diagnosis and treatment of Tubo ovarian abscess (pelvic abscess).