Isolated fallopian tube torsion associated with appendicitis: A case report

BACKGROUND: Fallopian tube torsion is a rare finding in women presenting with abdominal pain, and it is exceedingly rare for it to be associated with concomitant appendicitis. The clinical presentation of isolated fallopian tube torsion can be a diagnostic problem because there are no specific clinical features. Early consideration of the diagnosis and prompt surgical management are required, as this can help to preserve the fallopian tube. CASE PRESENTATION: We report a case of dual pathology, with isolated left-sided fallopian tube torsion associated with concomitant appendicitis. The patient's clinical presentation raised clinical concern for a right-sided ovarian torsion, and so exploratory laparoscopy was initiated. A large fluid-filled haemorrhagic structure arising from the left fallopian tube was noted, with associated torsion of the left tube, and also an acutely inflamed appendix. The left fallopian tube was detorted and an appendicectomy was performed. The patent recovered well postoperatively. CONCLUSION: Isolated fallopian tube torsion is an extremely rare diagnosis and has a nonspecific clinical presentation. It should be considered in all women who present with acute lower abdominal pain. Tubal pathology in conjunction with acute appendicitis is exceedingly rare. Laparoscopy is the ‘gold standard’ for diagnostic and therapeutic intervention.