Transvaginal ultrasonographic identification of appendicitis in a setting of chronic pelvic pain and endometriosis

Our patient had a history of chronic endometriosis and pelvic pain and comp lained of recent onset of right-sided abdominal pain, nausea, and vomiting. Transvaginal ultrasonography revealed a thick-walled mass superior and med ial to the right ovary, which was thought to be an inflamed appendix. The w oman was not pregnant, and the structure appeared to be anatomically separa te from the uterus, Subsequent laparoscopy confirmed the diagnosis of acute appendicitis; uncomplicated laparoscopic appendectomy followed. In the set ting of chronic endometriosis, other nongynecologic sources of acute pelvic pain must be considered. Surgical intervention is appropriate whenever cli nical suspicion for an acute abdomen is high, and the a priori diagnosis of endometriosis should not result in operative delay.