![]() Rare cases of endometriosis of gastrointestinal tract, bones, vertebra, central nervous system and lungs have been reported. Other areas, which are less commonly involved, include the vagina, cervix, recto-vaginal septum, cecum, ileum, inguinal canal, perineal scars, urinary bladder, ureter and the umbilicus. The most common site of endometriosis is the ovaries with spread to anterior and posterior cul-de sac, broad ligament, fallopian tube, uterosacral ligaments, uterus, fallopian tubes, sigmoid colon, appendix and round ligament. Genetic predisposition, hormones and immunological status is also proposed to have an effect along with new research suggesting a role of environmental exposure to certain agents. Other popular theories include celomic metaplasia, stem cell origin and lymphatic and hematogenous spread. It is proposed that with retrograde menstruation the endometrial glands and stroma are attached and implanted in peritoneal cavity. Suspicion is higher in women presenting with the classical triad of dysmenorrhea, dyschezia (pain during defecation) and dyspareunia.Īlthough the exact pathogenesis is still a subject of research, the most predominant theory is of retrograde menstruation. The final diagnosis requires surgery and histopathology of the lesions, which further delays the management. It is also a diagnostic dilemma for physicians with majority of patients being asymptomatic or presenting with atypical symptoms. 1, 2 Endometriosis is a challenging medical condition with debilitating effects on the life of patients. It affects approximately 6-10% of reproductive age women, however, the reported prevalence is 20–50% in women with infertility and 30–80% in women with pelvic pain. In women who do not respond to medical therapy or have severe symptoms, surgical excision of the endometrial lesions and adhesions is often helpful and offers confirmatory diagnosis by histopathology.Įndometriosis is a chronic medical condition characterized by the presence of endometrial glands and stroma outside the endometrial cavity. With more research on the molecular and biochemical aspects of endometriosis, newer targets of therapy are being developed like selective progesterone receptor modulators, anti-angiogenic factors and immunomodulators. NSAIDs, oral contraceptive pills, GnRH agonists, aromatase inhibitors are some of the commonly used medications. Both hormonal and non-hormonal medical options are available and are tried at first with a goal to control pain and stop the growth of the endometriotic lesions. Treatment includes medical and surgical options. The diagnosis requires a high degree of suspicion and can be only confirmed on histopathology. ![]() The disease is characterized by estrogen dependent growth of the endometrial glands and stroma outside the endometrial cavity. Pelvic pain, dysmenorrhea and infertility are the most common presenting symptoms. Endometriosis is a chronic medical condition that affects around 6–10 % of reproductive age women. ![]()
0 Comments
Leave a Reply. |
AuthorWrite something about yourself. No need to be fancy, just an overview. ArchivesCategories |