Endometriosis in adolescents: A literature review

Endometriosis is a chronic gynecological disorder that affects approximately 10% of women of reproductive age. In adolescents, it frequently remains underdiagnosed due to the heterogeneity of its clinical presentation. Pelvic pain and dysmenorrhea are often interpreted as physiological symptoms associated with the menstrual cycle, which contributes to delayd diagnosis and postpones timely intervention. Current management strategies primarily include nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and hormonal therapies, with the dual objective of relieving pain and, in the case of endometriosis, limiting disease progression. Ultrasound and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) are valuable tools for diagnostic assessment. Laparoscopy may be sometimes required in cases where medical treatment proves ineffective. In adolescents, as in adults, a multidisciplinary approach is strongly recommended. Recent advances have focused on the identification of specific biomarkers and the development of non-invasive diagnostic methods, with the aim of improving early detection and enhancing patients' quality of life. This literature review provides an overview of current diagnostic and therapeutic strategies for endometriosis in adolescents, while exploring innovat.