Spontaneous rupture of endometrial cysts of the ovary presenting as an acute abdominal emergency

Review of 37 cases of spontaneous rupture of endometrial cysts indicates that the diagnosis is rarely made preoperatively because of the similarities between this condition and other more frequently encountered acute abdominal emergencies. These similarities as well as differences are discussed. Surgical therapy must be individualized but, in general, the procedure should be conservative in younger patients even though a second operation may be necessary within a few years. The place of a more extensive surgical procedure in older patients is discussed. The morbidity and hospital stay following surgical therapy can be expected to be minimal.