Endometriosis

Endometriosis is a common medical condition where the tissue lining the uterus (the endometrium, from endo, "inside", and metrium, "mother") is found outside of the uterus, typically affecting other organs in the pelvis. The condition can lead to serious health problems, primarily pain and infertility. Endometriosis primarily develops in women of the reproductive age.

Diagnosis

A history and a physical examination can in many patients lead the physician to suspect the diagnosis.

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Use of imaging tests may identify larger endometriosic areas, such as nodules or endometriotic cysts. The two most common imaging tests are ultrasound and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Normal results on these tests do not eliminate the possibility of endometriosis - areas of endometriosis are often too small to be seen by these tests.

Related Topics:
Ultrasound - Magnetic resonance imaging

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The only sure way to confirm an endometriosis diagnosis is by laparoscopy, or keyhole surgery. The diagnosis is based on the characteristic appearance of the disease, if necessary corraborated by a biopsy. Laparoscopy also allows for surgical treatment of endometriosis.

Related Topics:
Laparoscopy - Biopsy

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Women should not accept drug therapy (other than the Oral Contraceptive Pill) without a confirmed surgical diagnosis of endometriosis.

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