MRI Features of Deep Infiltrating Endometriosis

Objective To explore the characteristics of deep infiltrating endometriosis on MRI( magnetic resonance imaging). Methods The clinical and MRI data of 15 patients with deep infiltrating endometriosis were retrospectively collected and analyzed. Results On MRI,deep infiltrating endometriosis mainly affected uterosacral ligaments,vagina,pouch of Douglas,and rectum. Ureter was also involved sometimes. The main manifestations include the abnormalities of signal intensity and morphology,the deformation and tethering of surrounding organs and tissues as well as the irregular thickening of involved lesions or the formation of solid nodules. In this study,the uterosacral ligaments were involved in 9 cases,12cases infiltrated vagina,lesions of 3 cases were located in pouch of Douglas,rectum were invaded in 6 cases and ureter involvement was present in 2 cases. Conclusion MRI manifestations of deep infiltrating endometriosis can provide information of the anatomic locations and the lesion extension,which is an important method for examination before surgery and follow-up after surgery.