Ovarian Torsion: Sensitivity and Specificity

Introduction: Torsion of the ovary blocks venous outflow (and less commonly arterial inflow), leading to swelling of the ovary and subsequent occlusion of arterial blood flow. In adults, 94% of ovarian torsions were from masses (half cysts and half neoplasms). However, >50% of torsions in children < 15 years of age occur in normal ovaries.

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The sensitivity and specificity of findings for Ovarian Torsion are listed below. See the left navigation bar to change the display.

Sensitive and Specific Findings

Finding	Sensitivity	Specificity	Comments, Study
Doppler Ultrasound	93%	98%	The findings may be decreased or absent venous and/or arterial flow - here the criterion is simply any abnormality. Study: J Ultrasound Med 2001 Oct;20(10):1083-9. PMID 11587015 Eur J Obstet Gynecol Reprod Biol 2002 Aug 5;104(1):64-6. PMID 12128265

Sensitive Findings

Finding	Sensitivity	Specificity	Comments, Study
Ovarian Mass by Ultrasound	Sensitivity = 100%		Only 15 patients. No specificity. Study: J Ultrasound Med 2001 Oct;20(10):1083-9. PMID 11587015
Fluid in Cul-de-Sac	Sensitivity = 87%		(By ultrasound) Study: J Ultrasound Med 2001 Oct;20(10):1083-9. PMID 11587015