Pulmonary Endometriosis: A Systematic Review
Konstantinos Nikolettos1, Alexandros Patsouras2, Sonia Kotanidou1
1Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Hospital of Alexandroupolis, Democritus University of Thrace, Dragana, 68110 Alexandroupolis, Greece.
Journal of Personalized Medicine
|November 26, 2024
Summary
Thoracic endometriosis syndrome (TES) is a rare condition affecting the chest. This review of 592 patients found catamenial pneumothorax to be the most common symptom, often treated with surgery and hormonal therapy.
Area of Science:
- Reproductive Medicine
- Thoracic Surgery
- Medical Imaging
Background:
- Endometriosis involves ectopic endometrial tissue outside the uterus, typically in the pelvis.
- Pulmonary endometriosis, or thoracic endometriosis syndrome (TES), is a rare manifestation with thoracic cavity involvement.
- TES encompasses conditions like catamenial pneumothorax, hemothorax, hemoptysis, and lung nodules.
Purpose of the Study:
- To systematically review and summarize all reported cases of thoracic endometriosis syndrome (TES).
- To consolidate findings on clinical presentation, diagnostic methods, and treatment outcomes for TES.
Main Methods:
- A comprehensive literature search was performed on MEDLINE/PUBMED using relevant keywords.
- Systematic review adhering to PRISMA guidelines included 202 studies published between 1950 and 2024.
- Data from 592 patients diagnosed with TES were analyzed.
Main Results:
- The median age of affected women was 33.8 years.
- Catamenial pneumothorax was the most frequent presentation (68.4%), predominantly affecting the right lung (79.9%).
- Chest CT revealed ground-glass nodules and cystic lesions; X-rays most commonly showed pneumothorax. Video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery (VATS) combined with hormonal therapy was the primary treatment, with a 10.1% recurrence rate.
Conclusions:
- High clinical suspicion and a multidisciplinary approach are crucial for optimal management of TES.
- Further research is needed to establish more definitive treatment strategies and improve patient outcomes.
