Ultrasonographic examination and resolution of a pronounced hematocolpometra linked to an imperforate hymen: A detailed case study

Abstract

An imperforate hymen is a rare malformation present at birth; however, in most cases, diagnosis is missed until adolescence, when hematocolpometra and its symptoms develop. At this stage, every further delay in diagnosis and treatment will negatively affect the quality of life of young females. It may also be one of the causes of endometriosis and its consequences, such as subfertility. Sonography of the pelvis and physical examination are the diagnostic modalities of choice for diagnosing hematocolpometra and imperforate hymen.We present a case of a 14-year-old patient admitted to the obstetrics and gynecology clinic with complaints of lower abdominal pain and urinary retention following dysuria. The patient was previously examined by a family doctor who misidentified the issue and treated it as a urinary infection. After the symptoms worsened, the patient was referred to a gynecologist. An ultrasound examination showed a distended vagina and uterus, suggesting hematocolpometra, and after further inspection, it was revealed to be caused by an imperforate hymen. A hymenectomy was performed, and about 900 mL of blood was drained. Symptoms and complaints ceased, and the patient was discharged the next day.

Keywords

• Imperforate hymen
• Hematocolpometra
• Ultrasonography