Ruptured degenerated uterine fibroid diagnosed by imaging

BACKGROUND: We report a ruptured uterine leiomyoma presenting as an acute abdomen. We document computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging features of a ruptured uterine fibroid. CASE: A woman with a large anterior wall uterine fibroid underwent a dilation and curettage for a threatened abortion. She had an uneventful recovery. Three weeks later, she presented with peritonitis. Computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging optimally depicted the ruptured fibroid and excluded other causes of acute abdomen. Exploratory laparotomy and myomectomy confirmed the diagnosis. CONCLUSION: This is a report of a ruptured degenerated fibroid causing acute abdomen outside of pregnancy. Computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging aided in correctly establishing the diagnosis and optimizing the management of this patient. (Obstet Gynecol 2001;98: 961-3. (C) 2001 by the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists.).