Primary umbilical endometriosis

Area of Science:

• Gynecology
• Surgical Pathology

Background:

• Endometriosis is a condition where tissue similar to the uterine lining grows outside the uterus.
• Primary umbilical endometriosis is a rare manifestation, presenting as a distinct nodule at the navel.

Purpose of the Study:

• To characterize the clinical presentation, diagnostic methods, treatment, and outcomes of patients with primary umbilical endometriosis.
• To highlight the importance of considering umbilical endometriosis in the differential diagnosis of umbilical nodules.

Main Methods:

• An observational, descriptive study was conducted.
• Data from six patients diagnosed between 2014 and 2017 were analyzed.
• Clinical variables included age, symptoms, lesion characteristics, diagnosis, treatment, and recurrence.

Main Results:

• Six patients aged 28-45 years with umbilical endometriosis were treated.
• Lesions varied from 1-2.5 cm, with characteristic violet or erythematous-violaceous appearance.
• Diagnosis was confirmed via histopathology after clinical suspicion, with symptoms lasting 1-3 years.
• All patients experienced cyclical umbilical pain and bleeding; no associated neoplasms were found.

Conclusions:

• Umbilical endometriosis is an uncommon condition that should be considered in the differential diagnosis of women presenting with umbilical nodules.
• The primary treatment involves complete surgical excision of the affected tissue.