Endometriosis

Abstract The chapter discusses the pathophysiology, diagnosis, and management of endometriosis. Endometriosis is defined as the presence of endometrial tissue outside the uterus. Inflammation of the resulting ectopic tissue results in a spectrum of presenting pain symptoms. It is associated with dysmenorrhea and chronic pelvic pain. The disorder is estrogen-dependent and predominantly affects menstruating women, with a peak at 25–35 years of age. Consequently, its prevalence is probably around 10% of reproductive-age women. The pathogenesis is not clearly understood and is likely to be multifactorial. There are many potential treatment options, including both medical and surgical interventions, although, unfortunately, none is a definitive cure.