Endometriosis of the appendix.
Jiho Yoon1, Yong Sang Lee1, Hang-Seok Chang1
1Department of Surgery, Gangnam Severance Hospital, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea.
Annals of Surgical Treatment and Research
|September 24, 2014
Summary
Appendiceal endometriosis, though uncommon, presents varied symptoms and is often missed in initial diagnoses. It should be considered in women of childbearing age experiencing acute abdominal pain mimicking appendicitis.
Area of Science:
- Gastroenterology
- Gynecology
- Pathology
Background:
- Endometriosis involves endometrial tissue outside the uterus, with appendiceal involvement being rare.
- Clinical manifestations range from asymptomatic cases to acute abdominal pain.
Purpose of the Study:
- To detail the management of appendiceal endometriosis cases.
- To review the clinical features of this condition.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective review of five appendiceal endometriosis cases diagnosed between 2007 and 2012.
- Exclusion of patients with other intra-abdominal endometriosis.
Main Results:
- Mean age at diagnosis was 33.8 years; one patient was pregnant.
- Two patients were asymptomatic, three presented with abdominal pain or discomfort.
- Imaging studies showed appendiceal abnormalities, but endometriosis was not suspected preoperatively.
Conclusions:
- Appendiceal endometriosis requires consideration in the differential diagnosis of acute abdominal pain.
- This is particularly important for women of childbearing age presenting with appendicitis-like symptoms.
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