A case of Fitz-Hugh-Curtis syndrome

Abstract

Background: Fitz-Hugh-Curtis syndrome is a rare condition most commonly caused by Chlamydia trachomatis infection. It is associated with pelvic inflammatory disease and inflammation of the liver capsule (perihepatitis). Due to its clinical presentation, early detection and careful differential diagnosis are essential. CasePresentation: We present the case of a 17-year-old female with a prior history of latent syphilis that had been treated. She developed progressively worsening lower abdominal pain and was admitted through the emergency department. Based on computed tomography (CT) findings, she was diagnosed with Fitz-Hugh-Curtis syndrome and received appropriate treatment. Conclusion: Fitz-Hugh-Curtis syndrome should be suspected in sexually active women presenting with severe right upper quadrant abdominal pain requiring emergency care, especially when ultrasound findings show no abnormalities of the gallbladder but reveal signs of peritoneal inflammation in the abdominal and pelvic cavities. In such cases, abdominal CT plays a crucial role in diagnosis. Performing dynamic CT imaging, including the arterial phase, may improve diagnostic accuracy.