The use of ultrasound in the diagnosis of pelvic masses

Two hundred and two patients were referred to the ultrasound department for evaluation of a pelvic mass during 1977, and of these only 120 underwent an operation enabling a definitive diagnosis to be made. The diagnostic accuracy of ultrasound was compared with the final operative diagnosis. The great majority (98%) of pelvic masses could be detected, and ultrasound was accurate in predicting the antatomical site of a pelvic lesion in 88% of cases. Uterine lesions were precisely diagnosed in 87% of cases, but only 30% of adnexal conditions could be specifically recognized. Numerous situations in which ultrasound provided additional information of great clinical value were noted.

Multiple serous effusions complicating pre-eclampsia. A case report

A patient with multiple serous effusions and the nephrotic syndrome complicating the middle trimester of pregnancy is described. Rapid resolution of the effusions after delivery and exclusion of other causes of serous effusions and nephrosis make pre-eclamptic toxaemia the most likely cause. Anasarca can be a feature of this disease and there are a few reports of patients in whom clinical ascites has occurred. Our patient was exceptional in that pleural and synovial effusions into the knee joints were also present.