Abstract:
Introduction
Douglas abscess is a life-threatening collection of infected fluid. Usually it occurs as a
complication after operative proceduresorcan also present as a result of the
complexity of certain medical conditions like as pelvic inflammatory disease,
appendicitis, diverticulitis, inflammatory bowel disease, etc..
Purpose
The current abstract aims to explain the pathophysiology of
Douglas abscess, elaborates on the importance of imaging
techniques in diagnosing , and illustrates the necessary
information that leads to identifying high-risk patients
requiring immediate surgical intervention.
Material and methods
Research of the specialty literature and highlighting about the mechanisms of
formation, clinical manifestations characteristic, methods of diagnosis and
management of the Douglas abscess, published in the last 10 years in the databases
MEDLINE, PubMed, EMBASE.
Results
A systematic literature review was performed, according to the from PubMed and
Google Scholar using the mesh terms: „Douglas pouch”, „abscess”, „management”.
Patients with Douglas abscess present with high-grade fever, leukocytosis, palpable
pelvic mass, vaginal bleeding or discharge, and lower abdominal pain often
associated with elevated C-reactive protein. Its presentation requires early
recognition, immediate hospitalization, and surgical treatment.
Conclusions
The outcome of the patients with a Douglas abscess depends on the extent of the
disease, prompt diagnosis, and response to the initial medical treatment. The
rupture of this abscess is a life-threatening emergency and requires immediate
surgery. Early recognition and expeditious treatment with appropriate antibiotics
and surgical interventional can lead to successful treatment.
