Imaging of endometrial pathology

Area of Science:

• Radiology
• Gynecologic Imaging
• Endometrial Pathology

Background:

• The endometrium undergoes cyclical changes during the menstrual cycle and atrophies post-menopause.
• Accurate interpretation of endometrial imaging requires knowledge of the normal spectrum of appearances.
• Distinguishing normal variations from pathology is crucial for patient management.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the imaging features of the normal and abnormal endometrium.
• To discuss conditions that can mimic endometrial pathology.
• To emphasize the primary role of ultrasound and MRI in endometrial evaluation.

Main Methods:

• Review of imaging modalities including ultrasound with sonohysterography and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).
• Discussion of the complementary roles of hysterosalpingography, computed tomography (CT), and 18-fluorodeoxyglucose-positron emission tomography (FDG-PET).
• Focus on characteristic imaging findings for normal and abnormal endometrial states.

Main Results:

• Detailed description of normal endometrial appearances across different phases of the menstrual cycle and post-menopause.
• Identification of key imaging features distinguishing benign conditions from malignant endometrial pathology.
• Highlighting imaging findings of entities that can mimic endometrial disease.

Conclusions:

• Familiarity with normal endometrial imaging is essential for accurate diagnosis.
• Ultrasound with sonohysterography and MRI are the preferred modalities for endometrial assessment.
• A comprehensive understanding of imaging findings aids in the detection and management of endometrial conditions.