Postpartum ovarian vein thrombosis: a case report

Abstract

Introduction: Ovarian vein thrombosis (OVT) is a rare condition most frequently seen in the immediate postpartum period. Typical symptoms include pelvic pain, fever, and abdominal mass. Although a rare diagnosis, OVT can potentially cause fatal complications; thus, early recognition and prompt treatment is important. Case presentation: We present a case of a 30-year-old lady, G4P3A0, previously healthy, who presented at 29+3 weeks to the hospital for preterm premature rupture of membrane. The patient had a Cesarean section (C-section), which was complicated with uterine atony and massive bleeding controlled by emergent intrauterine balloon tamponade and uterine artery embolization. The next day, the patient complained of new-onset right lower quadrant abdominal pain, for which she had an abdominal and pelvic computed tomography (CT) scan that showed OVT. Thus, she was started on anticoagulants, and discharged home. Conclusion: OVT is a rare disorder that has been described as occurring mainly during the postpartum period, after pelvic surgery, or in women with gynecological malignancies. Clinical features of OVT include fever, abdominal pain and tenderness, and a palpable abdominal mass. Diagnosis can be obtained using CT, magnetic resonance (MR), or ultrasound (US) Doppler. Treatment includes a combination of anticoagulants and antibiotics. Mortality is low nowadays.