ABSTRACT
This chapter presents a case study of a 16-year-old girl who gives a classic presentation of ovarian cyst torsion. This involves the twisting of the ovary and the cyst on its pedicle, thereby blocking the vascular supply to the ovary eventually leading to ischaemia and necrosis of ovarian tissue. Diagnosis can be difficult and is mainly based on clinical presentation. Acute onset of unilateral pelvic pain associated with nausea and vomiting are common presenting features. It is important to take a detailed history in any women where ovarian torsion is suspected. Differential diagnoses include a ruptured ovarian cyst, ectopic pregnancy, pelvic inflammatory disease, appendicitis, renal colic and ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome. Prompt intervention is required to preserve ovarian function. This case is a gynaecological emergency and requires immediate attention, transfer to theatre and overnight admission. Patients with a suspected diagnosis of ovarian torsion should be admitted for gynaecological assessment, observation or surgical management.
