[On the structural changes induced in adenomyosis uteri and endometriosis externa by hormonal therapy (author's...

This study was undertaken to determine whether the hormonal sensitivity of the endometrium might be a measure of the effectiveness of hormonal therapy for adenomyosis and endometriosis. Accordingly, the effects of endogenous and exogenous hormones on the endometrium, adenomyosis, and endometriosis were correlated. The results revealed that, depending on where the ectopic endometrial tissue was located and on the type (duration and intensity) of hormonal treatment, the functional response of the endometriosis varied from that of the endometrium. The variations, however, can be predicted. The response of adenomyosis to hormonal stimulation was most like that of the endometrium. Endometriosis of the ovary often revealed an excessive response to stimulation, especially after gestagens. The other types of extrauterine foci of endometriosis, however, reacted only weakly to hormonal therapy. Important prognostic consequence for therapy can be drawn from the results.