Recurrent ascites due to spontaneous intraperitoneal bladder rupture after pelvic radiation therapy for cervical cancer

Abstract

Abstract Radiation cystitis is one of the major complications after radiotherapy in cervical cancer patients. However, spontaneous intraperitoneal bladder rupture resulting from radiation cystitis after radiotherapy for cervical cancer is extremely rare. We report a 52-year-old patient who received radiation therapy for cervical cancer 15 years ago. Since the last 8 years, the patient frequently presented with recurrent abdominal distension, oliguria, and ascites. Ascitic fluid drainage and supportive treatment provided symptomatic relief. However, every few months, the symptoms recurred. The patient was subjected to exploratory laparotomy twice. The first exploratory laparotomy in July 2015 revealed no significant abnormalities. During the second exploratory laparotomy in November 2016, intraperitoneal bladder rupture was observed, and the patient underwent surgical repair. After the surgery, ascites was completely cured. The occurrence of spontaneous intraperitoneal bladder rupture after radiation therapy in cervical cancer patients is rare. The prognosis for the condition is good if it is promptly diagnosed and treated.