Extra pelvic endometriosis: Retrospective analysis on 200 cases in two different countries

Area of Science:

• Gynecology
• Surgical Pathology

Background:

• Endometriosis is a condition where tissue similar to the lining inside the uterus appears outside the uterus.
• Extrapelvic endometriosis, occurring outside the pelvic cavity, is less common but can affect various organs.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the patient characteristics and common locations of extrapelvic endometriosis.
• To compare demographic and reproductive factors between patients with pelvic and extrapelvic endometriosis.

Main Methods:

• A retrospective review of 1000 women with endometriosis over 20 years identified 200 cases of extrapelvic endometriosis.
• Data collected included patient demographics, symptoms, surgical history, diagnostic methods, histopathology, and location of implants.
• Statistical analysis used chi-squared and Mann-Whitney U tests to compare incidences.

Main Results:

• The gastrointestinal tract (52%) and urinary system (35%) were the most frequent sites of extrapelvic endometriosis.
• Left-sided ureter involvement (24.5%) was significantly higher than right-sided ureter involvement (10.5%).
• No significant differences were found in age, weight, symptoms, menarche, endometriosis stage, parity, or family history between pelvic and extrapelvic cases.

Conclusions:

• The gastrointestinal and urinary systems are primary sites for extrapelvic endometriosis.
• Demographic, menstrual, and reproductive characteristics are similar in women with pelvic and extrapelvic endometriosis.