Isolated gangrene of the round and falciform liver ligaments: a rare cause of peritonitis: case report and review of the world literature

Abstract

Isolated infection and/or gangrene of the round and falciform liver ligaments is among the rarest causes of acute abdomen. The diagnosis is based on demonstrating localized or patchy inflammatory or gangrenous changes in the ligaments without apparent etiology. We report the case of an 18-year-old male who presented with a 24-hour history of generalized abdominal pain and distention, nausea, and vomiting. With a preoperative diagnosis of probable perforated duodenal ulcus and generalized peritonitis the patient underwent emergency surgery. Multiple patchy gangrenous areas of the round and falciform ligaments were found starting from the umbilicus up to the hepatic hilum. The ligaments were resected in toto. The patient's postoperative course was unremarkable. No apparent etiology of the condition was found. We provide the first extensive review of the world literature. Isolated infection and/or gangrene of the round and falciform liver ligaments should be suspected in patients with upper abdominal complaints when imaging studies demonstrate ligament abnormality, tumor, or fluid. Treatment is only surgical. Depending on surgeon's expertise, patient's condition, and severity and extent of disease either open or laparoscopic surgery may be performed.