Retroperitoneal fibrosis: a two decade experience and gynecologic manifestations.

A 20-year experience with idiopathic retroperitoneal fibrosis (RPF) is presented (6 cases). Its gynecologic manifestations with the simulation of pelvic malignancy is discussed. Three of the patients presented with pelvic masses, one of these a para-vaginal mass. In one patient, RPF followed or was concurrent with invasive squamous cell carcinoma of the cervix, of which this is the first reported case. The subject of RPF is reviewed with the modes of management and evidence for an autoimmune etiology. Thrombocytopenia, a previously unreported finding with RPF, was noted in three of the six patients. The reversal of the A/G ratio in these patients is discussed, correlating this finding with the progression of azotemia.