Unusual imaging appearances of endometriosis

Endometriosis is defined as tissue resembling the endometrium occurring outside the uterus. The purpose of this article is to familiarize the radiologist with the wide spectrum of pelvic endometriosis and to review the distinctive imaging findings. Infrequent manifestations of endometriosis, including malignant degeneration, scar endometriosis, association with ascites, and invasive endometriosis, are described.

The manifestations of endometriosis commonly present a challenge to the gynecologist and radiologist. Familiarity with its varied presentations may allow accurate diagnosis.