Fitz-Hugh-curtis syndrome in elderly male patient. Case and literature review

Abstract

Fitz-Hugh-Curtis syndrome (FHCS) is the inflammation of the hepatic capsule without affecting the parenchyma, which is associated with a pelvic inflammatory disease. There have been very few cases in men. The main symptom is abdominal pain in the right upper quadrant, which can be confused with a bile duct disorder. Strong violin string-like adhesions between the diaphragm and the liver are characteristic. In the study concerned, it is reported the case of an 81 year-old man who undergoes a laparoscopic cholecystectomy for recurrent pancreatitis. During surgery, the typical violin string-like adhesions are found and sectioned. The patient tests positive for Chlamydia trachomatis antibodies. Only nine cases in men have been reported in FHCS literature. This syndrome is frequently confused with infectious biliary tract disease, so the patient should undergo a surgery to diagnose when the characteristic adhesions are found. If the disease is suspected by the additional tests, it can be treated with antibiotics.