What Is Fitz-Hugh-Curtis Syndrome?
Fitz-Hugh-Curtis syndrome is a condition in which inflammation of the liver (hepatitis) occurs along with inflammation of the membrane that lines the abdominal cavity and covers the abdominal organs (peritoneum). This inflammation is usually caused by a sexually transmitted infection (STI), such as chlamydia or gonorrhea. People with Fitz-Hugh-Curtis syndrome typically experience pain, tenderness, and swelling in the upper right abdomen. They may also have nausea, vomiting, fever, chills, and fatigue. Treatment typically involves antibiotics to treat the underlying STI and pain relievers to manage the pain. In some cases, hospitalization may be necessary.
Causes
The most common cause of Fitz-Hugh-Curtis syndrome is a sexually transmitted infection (STI). Chlamydia and gonorrhea are the two STIs most commonly associated with Fitz-Hugh-Curtis syndrome, but other STIs can also cause the condition.
STIs can spread from person to person during unprotected sex. When bacteria from an STI enter the body, they can travel through the bloodstream and spread to different organs and tissues, including the liver and peritoneum. Inflammation of these tissues can lead to Fitz-Hugh-Curtis syndrome.
Risk factors for Fitz-Hugh-Curtis syndrome include:
* Having multiple sexual partners
* Not using condoms during sex
* Having an STI
* Being a woman
* Being young (under 25 years old)
Symptoms
The most common symptoms of Fitz-Hugh-Curtis syndrome are:
* Pain in the upper right abdomen
* Tenderness in the upper right abdomen
* Swelling in the upper right abdomen
* Nausea
* Vomiting
* Fever
* Chills
* Fatigue
* Loss of appetite
* Weight loss
In some cases, Fitz-Hugh-Curtis syndrome can also cause:
* Joint pain
* Muscle aches
* Headaches
* Skin rash
Diagnosis
Your doctor may suspect that you have Fitz-Hugh-Curtis syndrome based on your symptoms and a physical examination. Your doctor may also order tests to confirm the diagnosis, such as:
* Blood tests
* Urine tests
* Imaging tests, such as ultrasound or CT scan
* Laparoscopy, which is a surgical procedure in which a small incision is made in the abdomen and a camera is inserted to visualize the liver and peritoneum
Treatment
Treatment for Fitz-Hugh-Curtis syndrome typically involves antibiotics to treat the underlying STI and pain relievers to manage the pain. In some cases, hospitalization may be necessary.
Antibiotics that may be used to treat Fitz-Hugh-Curtis syndrome include:
* Doxycycline
* Azithromycin
* Ceftriaxone
Pain relievers that may be used to manage pain associated with Fitz-Hugh-Curtis syndrome include:
* Acetaminophen
* Ibuprofen
* Naproxen
In severe cases, surgery may be necessary to remove damaged tissue from the liver and peritoneum.
Prognosis
The prognosis for Fitz-Hugh-Curtis syndrome is usually good with prompt diagnosis and treatment. However, the condition can lead to complications if it is not treated properly, such as:
* Liver damage
* Peritonitis
* Infertility
* Ectopic pregnancy
Prevention
The best way to prevent Fitz-Hugh-Curtis syndrome is to practice safe sex. This means using condoms during sex and avoiding having multiple sexual partners. If you have any symptoms of an STI, see your doctor immediately to be tested and treated.