Chapter 14 – Acute Pelvic Pain and Other Gynaecological Emergencies

Other non-gynaecological causes of acute pelvic pain

Appendicitis: usually presents with right iliac fossa pain and systemic features which may include fever, anorexia and vomiting. Pain may commence at the umbilicus before migrating to the right iliac fossa.(3) Adnexal tenderness may be present on pelvic examination.(15) Computed tomography (CT) scan has a higher sensitivity and specificity than ultrasound in the diagnosis of acute appendicitis.(15) Definitive diagnosis is made at the time of surgery. Prompt referral to hospital is recommended if appendicitis is suspected. Diverticulitis: an important differential, especially in patients aged over 40, and typically presents with left sided pain with or without associated rectal bleeding. CT scan may show changes associated with diverticular disease.(15) In some cases, abscess formation and bowel perforation can occur. Urinary tract pathology including infection or renal calculi. ... Buy now