Imaging Findings of Ovarian Vein Thrombosis

Cureus. 2023 Nov 11;15(11):e48672. doi: 10.7759/cureus.48672. eCollection 2023 Nov.

Abstract

Ovarian vein thrombosis (OVT) is an uncommon condition that occurs mainly in the peripartum period. Hyper-coagulable conditions have been reported to cause OVT outside the peripartum period. The clinical presentation is usually nonspecific pain, but it can be asymptomatic in patients with underlying malignancy. Imaging plays an important role in diagnosis. Ultrasound is the initial imaging modality, but it is operator-dependent and has limited sensitivity. Computed tomography (CT) is the most commonly used modality for diagnosis. CT can show the luminal filling defect within the thrombosed vein and assess the extension of the thrombosis. MRI can show the thrombosed vein as a filling defect on post-contrast images; also, diffusion-weighted images may help in the diagnosis. Complications include extension into the inferior vena cava or renal veins. Pulmonary embolism is the most serious complication. Treatment includes anticoagulation plus antibiotics. Early diagnosis is essential to prevent complications.

Keywords: computed tomography (ct ); idiopathic ovarian vein thrombosis; mri-magnetic resonance imaging; post partum; thrombosis.

Publication types

  • Review