A case of massive ovarian edema on laparoscopic conservative surgery

Abstract

  Massive ovarian edema (MOE) is a non-neoplastic tumor-like mass, which was first reported in 1969. However, MOE is not extensively recognized even among gynecologists. Herein, we report a case of MOE that could be diagnosed and managed by laparoscopic surgery. A 23-year-old woman presenting right lower abdominal pain visited our hospital. Ultrasonography showed an enlarged right ovary and ascites. MRI showed multiple small cysts located peripherally and stromal edema with a marked increase in T2 signal intensity. The patient was diagnosed with torsion of the right ovarian mass, and underwent laparoscopic surgery. Pathological evaluation of a biopsy revealed no neoplastic findings, and the ovary was preserved. The hormonal levels of LH and FSH showed polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS). Based on these findings, the final diagnosis was MOE with PCOS. Three months after surgery, the right ovary showed a normal appearance on MRI. This case demonstrates that laparoscopic surgery is useful for the treatment of MOE.