Ovarian vein syndrome

A condition involving the compression of the ureter by the ovarian vein

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Ovarian vein syndrome

Diagram of the female reproductive system, showing the location of the ovarian veins.

Ovarian vein syndrome is a rare medical condition characterized by the compression of the ureter by an enlarged or varicose ovarian vein. This condition can lead to a variety of symptoms, primarily related to the obstruction of urine flow from the kidney to the bladder.

Anatomy and physiology

The ovarian vein is a blood vessel that drains deoxygenated blood from the ovary to the inferior vena cava on the right side and to the renal vein on the left side. In some cases, the ovarian vein can become enlarged or varicose, leading to compression of adjacent structures such as the ureter.

Pathophysiology

Ovarian vein syndrome occurs when the enlarged ovarian vein compresses the ureter, causing partial or complete obstruction of urine flow. This can result in hydronephrosis, a condition where the kidney becomes swollen due to the accumulation of urine. The obstruction can lead to flank pain, urinary tract infections, and renal colic.

Symptoms

The symptoms of ovarian vein syndrome can vary but often include:

• Flank or abdominal pain
• Nausea and vomiting
• Recurrent urinary tract infections
• Hematuria (blood in urine)
• Dysuria (painful urination)

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of ovarian vein syndrome typically involves imaging studies such as ultrasound, CT scan, or MRI to visualize the enlarged ovarian vein and its effect on the ureter. Intravenous pyelogram (IVP) may also be used to assess the degree of ureteral obstruction.

Treatment

Treatment options for ovarian vein syndrome may include:

• Conservative management with pain relief and monitoring
• Surgical intervention to relieve the compression, such as laparoscopic surgery to ligate or remove the affected vein
• Endovascular procedures like embolization to occlude the vein

Prognosis

With appropriate treatment, the prognosis for ovarian vein syndrome is generally good. Surgical or endovascular interventions can effectively relieve symptoms and prevent complications such as kidney damage.

Related pages

• Pelvic congestion syndrome
• Varicose veins
• Hydronephrosis
• Ureteral obstruction