Causes of Fitz-Hugh-Curtis Syndrome
Fitz-Hugh-Curtis syndrome is primarily caused by bacterial sexually transmitted infections, with Chlamydia trachomatis and Neisseria gonorrhoeae being the most common culprits. Although the precise mechanism of infection is not fully understood, it is widely believed that the bacteria migrate from the pelvis to the liver via the bloodstream or lymphatic system.
Autoimmune Theory
According to the autoimmune theory, researchers suggest that Fitz-Hugh-Curtis syndrome is caused by the body’s immune response to an infection. Autoimmune disorders occur when the immune system mistakenly attacks healthy tissues. Numerous studies have observed significantly elevated levels of antibodies to Chlamydia trachomatis in individuals with Fitz-Hugh-Curtis syndrome. The autoimmune theory proposes that the formation of scar tissue in adhesions is a result of an excessively aggressive immune response that targets and destroys healthy cells and tissues surrounding the organs.