Tubo-ovarian abscess: Exploring optimal treatment options based on current evidence

Purpose: Tubo-ovarian abscess (TOA) and pelvic abscess are characterized by an inflammatory pelvic mass. In the majority of cases, this condition involves the ovaries, the fallopian tubes and/or any other adjacent tissue. TOA is considered a severe complication of PID and can cause severe sepsis. The main risk factors for women’s health are the size of the abscess, the initial amount of white blood cells (WBC), patients’ age as well as, any co-existing comorbidities. Methods: This study provides a review of the current literature regarding the management of TOA and the different criteria used in order to establish the optimal therapeutic approach or to predict outcome by individualizing cases. Four major search engines, MEDLINE, Google Scholar, PubMed and EMBASE, up to February 2020 were explored, focusing in epidemiology and risk factors, pathogenesis, diagnosis and treatment. Results: Our review suggests that there are no clear guidelines for best practice, in case of TOA, but it appears that intravenous antibiotics combined with interventional radiology have good results for TOA <5 cm. When TOA is >5 cm, laparoscopic approach is indicated. Further studies are needed in order to evaluate the best treatment for women with TOA. Conclusions: More prospective studies on large-series of patients are in need, in order to determine a clear pathway and to suggest specific criteria, which can guide clinicians to choose optimal approach in a timely manner.