Albi-Martínez B, Marcos-González V, Savirón-Cornudella R, Martínez-Murillo PJ, Rodríguez-Miñón PA, Andeyro-García M

Language: Spanish
References: 0
Page: 785-790
PDF size: 1890.27 Kb.

ABSTRACT

Clinical case: We report the case of a rare complication known as vernix caseosa peritonitis in a nuliparus woman who underwent a cesarean section on the 40+1 week. Four days later, she was readmitted with an acute abdomen and fever. An exploratory laparoscopy compatible with peritonitis was performed and no purulent or fecaloid collections were found. Microbiological cultures were negative and pathologic examination show anucleated squamous cells, therefore confirming the diagnosis of vernix caseosa peritonitis. The treatment is based on lavage and peritoneal aspiration and benefit of broad-spectrum antibiotic therapy is unclear. We review the literature, finding a total of 27 cases reported so far. Vernix caseosa peritonitis can be confused with other causes of acute abdomen, coming to perform unnecessary surgery and excision of healthy organs. It is essential that obstetricians and pathologists aware of this rare entity, to establish a diagnosis of suspicion and a more appropriate and conservative treatment.