Recurrent ascites due to spontaneous intraperitoneal bladder rupture after pelvic radiation therapy for cervical cancer

Radiation cystitis is one of the major complications following radiotherapy for cervical cancer. However, spontaneous intraperitoneal bladder rupture as a result of radiation cystitis following radiotherapy for cervical cancer is extremely rare. Case presentation: We report a 52-year-old patient who received radiation therapy for cervical cancer 15 years prior to presentation. Eight years prior to presentation, she developed recurrent abdominal distension, oliguria, and ascites. Following ascites drainage and supportive treatment, all symptoms were relieved. However, all symptoms subsequently recurred every few months. The patient underwent exploratory laparotomy twice. The first exploratory laparotomy in July 2015 found no specific abnormalities. The second exploratory laparotomy in November 2016 found an intraperitoneal bladder rupture, and the patient underwent surgical repair. The ascites subsequently resolved. Conclusion: The occurrence of spontaneous intraperitoneal bladder rupture after radiation therapy for cervical cancer is rare. The prognosis is good when diagnosis and treatment are prompt.