Huge Retroperitoneal Endometriotic Mass Adherent to the Sheaths of the Great Pelvic Vessels: 10 Years After Panhysterectomy (Parasitic Endometriosis)

Abstract

Abstract

Background:

Endometriosis occurring in postmenopausal women is rare.

Case:

A 55-year-old woman with a history of panhysterectomy 10 years ago presented with abdominal swelling and pain for several years. Examination revealed the presence of a huge abdominal mass. Ultrasound and computed tomography scanning with dye revealed the presence of a bilobular retroperitoneal mass. An exploratory laparotomy was performed to remove the mass.

Results:

Histopathologic examination revealed that the mass was an old endometriotic mass. The patient made an uneventful recovery; her postoperative hemoglobin 2 days after surgery was 8.5 g/dL, and she was discharged after 5 days on hematinics.

Conclusions:

Retroperitoneal endometriosis can present unexpectedly years after panhysterectomy. Management of such lesions should include careful preoperative assessment, proper patient counseling about the risks, and multispecialty teamwork to obtain the best outcome. (J GYNECOL SURG 33:207)