Case report: giant ovarian cyst torsion mimicking malignancy in a postmenopausal female

Abstract

Ovarian torsion is a gynaecological emergency that is uncommon in postmenopausal women. Large adnexal masses in this age group frequently raise suspicion for malignancy due to their size and complex imaging features, posing a diagnostic challenge. We present the case of a 53-year-old postmenopausal woman who presented with acute abdominal pain and progressive abdominal distension. Imaging studies revealed a large complex adnexal cyst with features suggestive of ovarian malignancy and torsion. Emergency exploratory laparotomy demonstrated torsion of a giant ovarian cyst. Histopathological examination confirmed a benign ovarian cyst with no evidence of malignancy. This case emphasizes the importance of considering ovarian torsion as a differential diagnosis in postmenopausal women presenting with large adnexal masses and acute abdomen.