Objective: To identify the different sonographic markers on gray scale and color Doppler in tubo-ovarian abscesses.
Methods: 75 women in whom the presence of tubo-ovarian abscess was confirmed by surgery and histopathology , their USG records were analyzed retrospectively.
Results: The mass was demonstrated at the position of the ovary in 65cases and at the cul-de-sac in 12cases. The mass was a simple cyst in 6cases , in 12cases it was cyst with septation, in 12cases it was a thickened tube-shaped structure with multiple internal echoes and in 45cases it was a mixture of cystic and solid elements. Pyosalpinges were found in 17 cases. Fluid in the cul-de-sac was bserved at a rate of 48%. Color Doppler sonography demonstrated abundant blood flow in the borders .
Conclusions: The USG findings of tubo-ovarian abscesses are not specific. However the presence of a mass at the ovary or cul-se-sac in combination with as increased number of WBC, elevated ESR and clinical findings are helpful for a correct diagnosis. Also the color doppler flow can further characterize the nature of pelvic mass by detecting a significant rich blood flow in most cases of tubo-ovarian abscesses.