PSEUDO-MEIGS SYNDROME

Meigs' syndrome is defined as a hydrothorax with ascites and a pelvic tumor, both of which resolve on removal of the tumor. Pseudo-Meigs' is a variant not possessing the original tumor cell types described by M eigs. Both these syndromes should be considered in otherwise healthy w omen who present with either new or recurrent hydrothorax and ascites, This case concerns a 21-year-old woman who presented to the emergency department (ED) with a recurrent hydrothorax. After performing a pelv ic examination that was suspicious for a pelvic mass, further evaluati on by ultrasonography showed ascites and a pelvic tumor. Surgeons from the Obstetrics and Gynecology Department performed an exploratory lap arotomy with removal of the tumor. Subsequently, there was no recurren ce of the ascites and hydrothorax. The tumor was diagnosed histologica lly as a benign mature teratoma. The literature of Meigs' and Pseudo-M eigs' is reviewed, focusing on the history, pathology, and clinical ch aracteristics. The clinical significance for the emergency physician i s discussed. (Am J Emerg Med 1998;16:404-405. Copyright (C) 1998 by W. B. Saunders Company).