Massive haemoperitoneum from endometriosis masquerading as ruptured ectopic pregnancy: Case report

Abstract

Endometriosis is a puzzling disease affecting women of reproductive age .Although it is diagnosed frequently, no consensus exists as to the aetiology of this enigmatic disease . Common locations of ectopic endometrial growths are in the abdomen involving the pelvic structures. Like in the uterine lining, these extra-uterine endometrial growths usually respond to hormones of the menstrual cycle. The tissues build up each month, break down and cause bleeding. However, unlike the lining of the uterus, endometrial tissues outside the uterus have no way of leaving the body. The result is internal bleeding, which if moderate to severe, may lead to massive haemoperitoneum. Philip et al , report an unusual cause of acute
haemoperitoneum in an asymptomatic woman with bleeding from the right uterine artery eroded by pelvic endometriosis. Areport of massive haemoperitoneum in pelvic endometriosis on progestogen treatment presenting as ruptured tubal ectopic pregnancy is presented.