A dermoid cyst, also called a mature teratoma, is a benign tumor of the ovary derived from pluripotent germ cells. It is often asymptomatic; however, it can be expressed by several complications, including infection, adnexal torsion, and rupture. Rarely ovarian dermoid cysts can also transform into malignant degeneration. A ruptured teratoma is a rare and life-threatening complication and may arise spontaneously. However, cystic rupture is often secondary to surgical procedures such as ovarian cystectomy, leading to acute peritonitis and surgical emergency. Herein, we report a case of acute peritonitis in a female resulting from ovarian dermoid cyst spillage. Her clinical picture and radiological imaging were consistent with a ruptured ovarian cyst leading to chemical peritonitis, and a histopathological examination confirmed an ovarian dermoid cyst.
Keywords: acute peritonitis; benign mature cystic teratoma; chemical peritonitis; ovarian cyst; ovarian dermoid cyst.
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