OP14.04: Endometriosis in adolescents: ultrasound findings

To assess the prevalence and ultrasound features of pelvic endometriosis in adolescents. This retrospective observational study included 238 adolescents (mean age 17.7 ±1.9 yrs.) referred to our Gynecological Clinic from January 2010 to December 2018. A 2D, 3D and power Doppler ultrasound examination (trans-vaginal or trans-rectal in adolescents with an intact hymen) was conducted in all patients. All possible locations of endometriosis were evaluated and recorded using a dedicated mapping sheet. Levels of pelvic pain were assessed in all adolescents by visual analogue scale (VAS). The most frequent symptoms were dysmenorrhea 57.1 % (136/238) and heavy menstrual bleeding 27% (64/238). Endometriosis was identified in 54 adolescents (22.7%). In particular, endometriomas were found in 17 adolescents (7.1%), deep infiltrating endometriosis (DIE) in 9 (3.8%), adhesions in 18 (7.6%) and ultrasound signs of adenomyosis in 16 (6.7%). In the group that complained dysmenorrhea (136 adolescents) the percentage of endometriosis was 18.5 %; in particular, endometriomas were present in 7.3 %, DIE in 2.9%, adenomyosis in 5.9% and adhesions in 10.3%. The rates of dysmenorrhea and heavy menstrual bleeding in adolescents are high. In teenagers with painful menses ultrasound features of endometriosis are significantly higher compared to those without. Considering the lacking knowledge of the disease among adolescents, those involved with teens, within the health profession or in schools, should be educated about endometriosis and its symptoms, to reduce the significant delay between the onset of symptoms and the diagnosis by referring to appropriate tertiary care centres. Please note: The publisher is not responsible for the content or functionality of any supporting information supplied by the authors. Any queries (other than missing content) should be directed to the corresponding author for the article.