RECTAL SONOGRAPHY FOR DIAGNOSING HEMATOCOLPOMETRA - A CASE-REPORT

BACKGROUND: Imperforate hymen is an uncommon defect. Ultrasound may be useful in diagnosing hematacolpos, which is a common complication of imperforate hymen. The rectal approach with the ultrasound probe is an excellent method in aiding the diagnosis when the transvaginal approa ch is not feasible. CASE: Imperforate hymen was suspected in an amenor rheic, 13-year-old girl who complained of cyclic lower abdominal pain. Her pubic hair and breast development were Tanner stage 3. Abdominal and pelvic examination confirmed a tender pelvic mass. A bluish, bulgi ng hymen was noted. Abdominal ultrasound revealed a pelvic cystic mass . Rectal ultrasound confirmed the diagnosis of hematocolpometra. CONCL USION: Transrectal sonography provides an excellent alternative to tra nsvaginal ultrasound in cases where transvaginal ultrasound is not fea sible or is impossible. The rectal approach is appropriate due to the close proximity to the pelvic organs and patient acceptance of the pro cedure.