A rare form and complication of chronic pelvic inflammatory disease which causes:
Inflammation of the membrane lining the stomach (peritoneum) and tissues surrounding the liver (perihepatitis) causing adhesion formation (string-like, fibrous scar tissue (adhesions) between the liver and the abdominal wall or the diaphragm) in females of child bearing age.
The muscle that separates the stomach and the chest (diaphragm), which plays an essential role in breathing, may also be affected.
The exact process by which such infections cause Fitz-Hugh-Curtis syndrome (pathogenesis) is not completely understood.
Some researchers believe that it occurs because of infection of the liver and surrounding tissue, which may result from bacteria traveling from the pelvis directly to the liver or via the bloodstream or lymphatic system.
Some researchers have speculated that Fitz-Hugh-Curtis syndrome may occur because of an improper immune system response (autoimmunity) to infection with Neisseria gonorrhoeae or Chlamydia trachomatis.
Autoimmune disorders are caused when the body’s natural defences (antibodies, lymphocytes, etc), against invading organisms suddenly begin to attack perfectly healthy tissue.
National Organization for Rare Disorders (NORD)
In extremely rare cases, it has occurred in men, but mainly occurs in females.
Acute pain or tenderness in the right upper abdomen quadrant – liver area (perihepatic-liver inflammation and adhesions)?
Abdominal and/or cramping pain and/or are constant violently vomiting or vomiting longer than two days (one day if a child)?
Nausea and/or vomiting?
Abdominal heaviness, swelling in abdomen and liver area (due to ascites where one has a fluid build up in the peritoneal cavity (a lining around the abdominal organs and intestines)?
Please talk to your healthcare professional (i.e. Medical Doctor/Pharmacist) for further advice
Detailed Information
Please copy and paste any key words from the title: Fitz Hugh Curtis syndrome in the following respective 'Medtick References and/or Sources' to find out more about the disease (this also may include diagnosis tests and generic medical treatments).
The Pharmaceutical Journal covers analysis, features, opinion, learning and careers articles, providing insight and knowledge about drugs, pharmacy practice, medicines use and healthcare policy in the context of the pharmacy profession and pharmaceutical science.
