Endometriosis Clinical Manifestations

Written by Zhang Xiu Rong
Obstetrics and Gynecology
Updated on December 03, 2024
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Endometriosis is clinically most evident in dysmenorrhea, which tends to worsen progressively. The clinical presentation varies depending on where the endometrial tissue is located. If the tissue is located on the ovaries, it can form ovarian chocolate cysts. Generally, chocolate cysts can affect fertility, leading to anovulation and the appearance of ovarian chocolate-like cysts. Treatment typically involves surgical intervention, which is characterized by a high risk of recurrence after surgery. If there is no immediate plan for pregnancy, there is also a possibility of recurrence. Additionally, if endometriosis involves the uterus, it can lead to a uniformly enlarged uterus and uneven uterine wall echoes, resulting in adenomyosis. Therefore, the most typical clinical manifestation of endometriosis is progressively worsening dysmenorrhea.

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Written by Zhang Lu
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Does endometriosis affect pregnancy?

Endometriosis is a common gynecological condition, which involves the implantation of endometrial tissue outside the uterine cavity. Endometriosis is a common cause of infertility: Firstly, when endometriosis occurs, it often affects the function of the ovaries. For example, ovarian chocolate cysts can affect the release of endocrine hormones in the ovaries, as well as cause ovarian ovulation disorders or premature ovarian failure. Secondly, endometriosis can cause inflammation in the pelvic cavity and adhesions within the pelvis. This will impact the function of the fallopian tubes, causing ovulation disorders in the tubes, as well as disorders in the transport function of the tubes. This can prevent fertilization, or after the sperm and egg have combined, the fallopian tubes may not be able to transport the fertilized egg to the uterine cavity, thus increasing the risk of ectopic pregnancy.

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Can endometriosis turn into cancer?

The answer is no. First, let's explain what endometriosis is. Endometriosis is when the endometrium, or the lining of the uterus, is found outside of its normal location, including in the muscular layer of the uterus, the ovaries, the pelvic cavity, or the intestines; it can occur in any of these areas. This condition is known as endometriosis. Endometriosis within the uterus is a benign condition, but it can lead to severe painful menstruation and chocolate cysts. If the menstrual pain is very severe, there may be a possibility of needing a hysterectomy in the future. If a chocolate cyst occurs, surgery might also be necessary.

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Written by Xu Xiao Ming
Obstetrics and Gynecology
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Endometriosis

Endometriosis means that the endometrial tissue, which normally lines the uterus, grows in other locations. It can grow on the ovaries, inside the muscular layer of the uterus, or in the pelvic cavity. The ectopic endometrial tissue responds to changes in the body's estrogen levels during each menstrual cycle, creating symptoms similar to menstrual bleeding. If it grows on the ovaries, it may form a "chocolate cyst" on the ovaries that gradually enlarges with each menstrual cycle. If it grows within the muscular layer of the uterus, it can lead to adenomyosis, causing significant pain during menstruation. If it grows in the pelvic cavity, it can lead to the formation of pelvic lesions. Therefore, it is recommended that patients with such conditions seek prompt medical treatment.

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Written by Zhang Xiu Rong
Obstetrics and Gynecology
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What tests are done for endometriosis?

Endometriosis is generally diagnosed through color ultrasound and CA-125 blood tests. If the endometrial tissue is located within the uterine muscle, it forms adenomyosis, at which point the ultrasound will show an enlarged uterus and uneven muscle wall echogenicity. Blood tests for the tumor marker CA-125, if elevated above the normal level of 35, generally indicate adenomyosis. If the endometrial tissue is located in the ovaries, it can form ovarian chocolate cysts, which are visible on the ultrasound as ovarian sections and echoes, with typical ultrasound reports indicating ovarian chocolate cysts. Therefore, routine examinations for endometriosis typically include color ultrasound and blood tests, which can confirm the diagnosis.

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Obstetrics and Gynecology
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How to treat endometriosis in the pelvic cavity?

When women suffer from pelvic endometriosis and the symptoms are not too severe—for instance, if the pain is relatively mild—they can be clinically observed during menstruation. If dysmenorrhea occurs, oral administration of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs such as indomethacin can help alleviate the symptoms. However, some women may experience more severe symptoms and may require pseudopregnancy treatment with drugs, such as oral contraceptives or progestin-based medications. Another approach involves using GnRH analogues, a method known as 'medical oophorectomy.' If symptoms are severe and treatments are ineffective, surgical intervention might be considered. Surgical options include electrocoagulation of endometriotic lesions in the pelvis, sharp or blunt dissection of adhesions, which can also improve the pelvic environment and potentially enhance fertility in women. (Note: Medication should be taken under the guidance of a doctor.)