Fitz-Hugh-Curtis syndrome. Radiologic manifestation

J Comput Assist Tomogr. 2003 Sep-Oct;27(5):786-91. doi: 10.1097/00004728-200309000-00017.

Abstract

Objectives: To clarify radiologic findings of Fitz-Hugh-Curtis syndrome (FHCS).

Methods: Thirteen women with right upper abdominal pain who were clinically diagnosed with FHCS were included. Biphasic helical computed tomography (CT) of the abdomen was performed in all patients. Posttherapeutic follow-up CT was available in 7 patients. Ultrasonography (US) was also performed in 12 patients. These imaging findings were reviewed retrospectively.

Results: On enhanced CT, hepatic and splenic capsular enhancement was identified in 13 and 4 patients, respectively. Hepatic capsular enhancement on the early phase, which was detected in all patients, disappeared after treatment. No adhesive band or fluid collection around the liver was evident. No enhancement of the "bare area" of the liver and spleen was seen. No definite abnormality of the liver or perihepatic region was detected by US.

Conclusions: Hepatic and splenic capsular enhancement on abdominal enhanced CT may be characteristic of FHCS. Enhanced CT may be a useful and noninvasive modality to help a diagnosis of FHCS, especially in young women with right upper abdominal pain without significant findings on US and gastrointestinal endoscopy.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Abdominal Pain / diagnostic imaging*
  • Abdominal Pain / etiology
  • Adult
  • Chlamydia Infections / complications
  • Chlamydia trachomatis
  • Endoscopy, Gastrointestinal
  • Female
  • Follow-Up Studies
  • Hepatitis / diagnostic imaging*
  • Hepatitis / etiology*
  • Humans
  • Pelvic Inflammatory Disease / complications*
  • Retrospective Studies
  • Syndrome
  • Tomography, Spiral Computed*
  • Ultrasonography