Endometriosis: clinical features, MR imaging findings and pathologic correlation

Area of Science:

• Gynecological Imaging
• Pelvic Health
• Women's Reproductive Health

Background:

• Endometriosis is a chronic condition affecting women of reproductive age, causing pelvic pain and infertility.
• It involves ectopic endometrial tissue growth, manifesting as ovarian endometriomas, peritoneal implants, or deep pelvic endometriosis.
• Diagnosis involves clinical assessment, imaging, and definitive histological confirmation via laparoscopy.

Purpose of the Study:

• To illustrate the magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) features of endometriosis.
• To highlight MRI's role in diagnosing and staging endometriosis.
• To emphasize MRI's utility in surgical planning for endometriosis.

Main Methods:

• Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is utilized as a second-line diagnostic technique after ultrasound.
• The MRI appearance of endometriotic lesions is analyzed based on hemorrhage, cellular components, smooth muscle, and fibrosis.
• Comprehensive assessment of pelvic compartments is performed using MRI.

Main Results:

• MRI provides detailed visualization of various endometriosis manifestations, including ovarian endometriomas, peritoneal implants, and deep pelvic endometriosis.
• The imaging characteristics on MRI are influenced by the age and quantity of hemorrhage, as well as tissue composition.
• MRI enables a complete assessment of all pelvic compartments in a single examination.

Conclusions:

• MRI is the optimal imaging technique for preoperative staging of endometriosis.
• It facilitates the selection of appropriate surgical approaches and aids in planning multidisciplinary treatment.
• Early and accurate diagnosis through MRI can help mitigate diagnostic delays associated with endometriosis.