The ovarian vein syndrome relates to entrapment of a ureter between a dilated ovarian vein and an adjacent anatomic structure. It is relatively rare and is much more frequent on the right side.
Risk factors:
(1) pregnancy
(2) other conditions associated with congestion of an ovarian vein
(3) aberrant course to an ovarian vein (malposition)
Clinical features:
(1) flank or lumbar pain
(2) renal colic
(3) recurrent episodes of pyelonephritis
Imaging findings:
(1) hydroureter with or without hydronephrosis, usually unilateral
(2) entrapment of the ureter between a dilated ovarian vein and a hard place
(2a) right side: external iliac artery
(2b) left side: psoas muscle
To read more or access our algorithms and calculators, please log in or register.
