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Dinu MD, Haj Hamoud B, Amza M, Gorecki GP, Sima RM, Gică N, Pleș L. Endometriosis in Menopausal Women-A New Age Is Coming? Literature Review. Life (Basel) 2024; 14:485. [PMID: 38672755 PMCID: PMC11051166 DOI: 10.3390/life14040485] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2024] [Revised: 04/03/2024] [Accepted: 04/06/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Endometriosis is a chronic inflammatory disease, characterized by the presence of ectopic endometrial tissue, that leads to dysmenorrhea, painful intercourse and infertility. The shift in paradigm from the previous belief that endometriosis exclusively impacts women of reproductive age has brought attention to the condition in both premenarchal and postmenopausal women. Currently, 2-4% of postmenopausal women have endometriosis. Many women experience menopausal symptoms during the peri- and postmenopausal periods and require extensive investigations and monitoring in order to avoid the recurrence of endometriosis symptoms or the risk of malignant transformation when treatment with menopausal hormones is elected. Our goal was to compile and present a clear and concise overview of the existing literature on postmenopausal endometriosis, offering an up-to-date and precise summary of the available information.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mihai-Daniel Dinu
- Department PhD, IOSUD, “Carol Davila” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 020021 Bucharest, Romania; (M.-D.D.); (M.A.)
| | - Bashar Haj Hamoud
- Department for Gynecology, Obstetrics and Reproductive Medicine, Saarland University Hospital, Kirrberger Straße 100, Building 9, 66421 Homburg, Germany;
| | - Mihaela Amza
- Department PhD, IOSUD, “Carol Davila” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 020021 Bucharest, Romania; (M.-D.D.); (M.A.)
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, “Carol Davila” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 020021 Bucharest, Romania; (N.G.); (L.P.)
- “Bucur” Maternity, Saint John Hospital, 012361 Bucharest, Romania
| | | | - Romina-Marina Sima
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, “Carol Davila” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 020021 Bucharest, Romania; (N.G.); (L.P.)
- “Bucur” Maternity, Saint John Hospital, 012361 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Nicolae Gică
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, “Carol Davila” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 020021 Bucharest, Romania; (N.G.); (L.P.)
- Filantropia Clinical Hospital Bucharest, 011132 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Liana Pleș
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, “Carol Davila” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 020021 Bucharest, Romania; (N.G.); (L.P.)
- “Bucur” Maternity, Saint John Hospital, 012361 Bucharest, Romania
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Vascular Involvement: An Uncommon Histologic Finding of Rectal Endometriosis. Int J Gynecol Pathol 2021; 40:518-521. [PMID: 33252402 DOI: 10.1097/pgp.0000000000000734] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Deep infiltrating endometriosis frequently affects the rectosigmoid region. It clinically presents as a chronic painful condition affecting women in their reproductive time. Here, we present a case of a 28-yr-old female patient who had a history of dysmenorrhea, dyspareunia, chronic abdominal and pelvic pain, and constipation secondary to rectal wall endometriosis. Microscopic examination of the resected rectal segment showed endometriosis with vascular and lymph node involvement. Vascular involvement is an uncommon histologic finding that may raise concern for potential malignancy. The aim of this report is to alert pathologists and physicians about this infrequent pitfall that can be mistaken for a neoplastic process and to discuss the underlying pathophysiology of vascular involvement by endometrial tissue in otherwise benign conditions.
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Mason BR, Chatterjee D, Menias CO, Thaker PH, Siegel CL, Yano M. Encyclopedia of endometriosis: a pictorial rad-path review. Abdom Radiol (NY) 2020; 45:1587-1607. [PMID: 31919647 DOI: 10.1007/s00261-019-02381-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Endometriosis affects approximately 10% of reproductive age women and represents a significant cause of pelvic pain and infertility. Unfortunately, the diagnosis of endometriosis is often delayed by years. Endometriosis may manifest as cystic lesions in the ovaries known as endometriomas. Superficial endometriosis is typically detected by laparoscopy along the pelvic peritoneum as these lesions tend to be difficult to detect by imaging. Deep infiltrative endometriosis may be detected by ultrasound, CT or MRI in classic locations within the pelvis, such as the posterior cul-de-sac and uterosacral ligaments. Endometriosis may also involve the thorax, gastrointestinal and urinary tracts, and locations such as the abdominal wall and abdominal organs. We present MRI and CT case examples, together with corresponding laparoscopic and histopathology images to enhance radiologists' understanding of this disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brandon R Mason
- Department of Radiology, Stillwater Medical Center, Stillwater, OK, USA
| | - Deyali Chatterjee
- Department of Pathology and Immunology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | | | - Premal H Thaker
- Division of Gynecologic Oncology, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Cary Lynn Siegel
- Mallinckrodt Institute of Radiology, Washington University School of Medicine, 510 S. Kingshighway Blvd., Campus Box 8131, St. Louis, MO, 63110, USA
| | - Motoyo Yano
- Department of Radiology, Mayo Clinic, Phoenix, AZ, USA.
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Cope AG, VanBuren WM, Sheedy SP. Endometriosis in the postmenopausal female: clinical presentation, imaging features, and management. Abdom Radiol (NY) 2020; 45:1790-1799. [PMID: 31701193 DOI: 10.1007/s00261-019-02309-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Postmenopausal endometriosis is an important clinical entity which is likely under-recognized and in which the Radiologist can play a valuable role. In this review, we describe the clinical presentation and management of postmenopausal endometriosis, appraising the literature and providing case examples. Persons with postmenopausal endometriosis may present with symptoms including pelvic pain or dyschezia, but endometriosis may also be an asymptomatic, incidental finding. Women may or may not have a prior history of endometriosis or a history of symptoms consistent with it. Therapies and conditions which increase exogenous or endogenous estrogen, respectively, increase the risk. Endometriosis can be found in different locations throughout the body, and the possibility of malignancy should be assessed, especially in the postmenopausal population, where age increases cancer risk. Treatment may involve surgery or medical interventions. Guidelines describing appropriate imaging surveillance in these patients are lacking. In the postmenopausal population, Radiologists need to consider endometriosis as a diagnosis, recommend appropriate exams such as MRI and US, and suggest endometriosis-associated malignancies when appropriate, based on classic morphologic features.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adela G Cope
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Mayo Clinic, 200 First Street SW, Rochester, MN, 55905, USA.
| | - Wendaline M VanBuren
- Department of Radiology, Mayo Clinic, 200 First Street SW, Rochester, MN, 55905, USA
| | - Shannon P Sheedy
- Department of Radiology, Mayo Clinic, 200 First Street SW, Rochester, MN, 55905, USA
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Secosan C, Balulescu L, Brasoveanu S, Balint O, Pirtea P, Dorin G, Pirtea L. Endometriosis in Menopause-Renewed Attention on a Controversial Disease. Diagnostics (Basel) 2020; 10:E134. [PMID: 32121424 PMCID: PMC7151055 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics10030134] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2020] [Revised: 02/13/2020] [Accepted: 02/27/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Endometriosis, an estrogen-dependent inflammatory disease characterized by the ectopic presence of endometrial tissue, has been the topic of renewed research and debate in recent years. The paradigm shift from the belief that endometriosis only affects women of reproductive age has drawn attention to endometriosis in both premenarchal and postmenopausal patients. There is still scarce information in literature regarding postmenopausal endometriosis, the mostly studied and reported being the prevalence in postmenopausal women. Yet, other important issues also need to be addressed concerning diagnosis, pathophysiology, and management. We aimed at summarizing the currently available data in literature in order to provide a concise and precise update regarding information available on postmenopausal endometriosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cristina Secosan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Medicine and Pharmacy “Victor Babeş”, 300041 Timişoara, Romania; (C.S.); (S.B.); (O.B.); (G.D.); (L.P.)
| | - Ligia Balulescu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Medicine and Pharmacy “Victor Babeş”, 300041 Timişoara, Romania; (C.S.); (S.B.); (O.B.); (G.D.); (L.P.)
| | - Simona Brasoveanu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Medicine and Pharmacy “Victor Babeş”, 300041 Timişoara, Romania; (C.S.); (S.B.); (O.B.); (G.D.); (L.P.)
| | - Oana Balint
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Medicine and Pharmacy “Victor Babeş”, 300041 Timişoara, Romania; (C.S.); (S.B.); (O.B.); (G.D.); (L.P.)
| | - Paul Pirtea
- Department of Ob Gyn and Reproductive Medicine, Hopital Foch—Faculté de Medicine Paris Ouest (UVSQ), 92151 Suresnes, France;
| | - Grigoraș Dorin
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Medicine and Pharmacy “Victor Babeş”, 300041 Timişoara, Romania; (C.S.); (S.B.); (O.B.); (G.D.); (L.P.)
| | - Laurentiu Pirtea
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Medicine and Pharmacy “Victor Babeş”, 300041 Timişoara, Romania; (C.S.); (S.B.); (O.B.); (G.D.); (L.P.)
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Zanello M, Borghese G, Manzara F, Degli Esposti E, Moro E, Raimondo D, Abdullahi LO, Arena A, Terzano P, Meriggiola MC, Seracchioli R. Hormonal Replacement Therapy in Menopausal Women with History of Endometriosis: A Review of Literature. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2019; 55:medicina55080477. [PMID: 31416164 PMCID: PMC6723930 DOI: 10.3390/medicina55080477] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2019] [Revised: 08/09/2019] [Accepted: 08/12/2019] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
Hormonal replacement therapy (HRT) is effective in treating the symptoms of menopause. Endometriosis is defined as the presence of functional endometrial tissue outside the uterine cavity with a tendency towards invasion and infiltration. Being an estrogen-dependent disease, it tends to regress after menopause. Nevertheless, it affects up to 2.2% of postmenopausal women. Conclusive data are not available in the literature on the appropriateness of HRT in women with endometriosis or a past history of the disease. The hypothesis that exogenous estrogen stimulation could reactivate endometriotic foci has been proposed. The aim of this state-of-the-art review was to revise the current literature about endometriosis in perimenopause and menopause and to investigate the possible role of HRT in this setting of patients. An electronic databases search (MEDLINE, Scopus, ClinicalTrials.gov, EMBASE, Sciencedirect, the Cochrane Library at the CENTRAL Register of Controlled Trials, Scielo) was performed, with the date range of from each database’s inception until May 2019. All of the studies evaluating the impact of different HRT regimens in patients with a history of endometriosis were selected. 45 articles were found: one Cochrane systematic review, one systematic review, five narrative reviews, two clinical trials, two retrospective cohort studies, 34 case reports and case series. Some authors reported an increased risk of malignant transformation of endometriomas after menopause in patients assuming HRT with unopposed estrogen. Low-quality evidence suggests that HRT can be prescribed to symptomatic women with a history of endometriosis, especially in young patients with premature menopause. Continuous or cyclic combined preparations or tibolone are the best choices. HRT improves quality of life in symptomatic post-menopausal women, who should not be denied the replacement therapy only due to their history of endometriosis. Based on low-grade literature evidence, we recommend to prescribe combined HRT schemes; tibolone could be considered.
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Affiliation(s)
- Margherita Zanello
- Gynecology and Human Reproduction Physiopathology, Dipartimento di Scienze Mediche e Chirurgiche (DIMEC), S. Orsola Hospital, University of Bologna, Via Massarenti 13, 40138 Bologna, Italy
| | - Giulia Borghese
- Gynecology and Human Reproduction Physiopathology, Dipartimento di Scienze Mediche e Chirurgiche (DIMEC), S. Orsola Hospital, University of Bologna, Via Massarenti 13, 40138 Bologna, Italy.
| | - Federica Manzara
- Gynecology and Human Reproduction Physiopathology, Dipartimento di Scienze Mediche e Chirurgiche (DIMEC), S. Orsola Hospital, University of Bologna, Via Massarenti 13, 40138 Bologna, Italy
| | - Eugenia Degli Esposti
- Gynecology and Human Reproduction Physiopathology, Dipartimento di Scienze Mediche e Chirurgiche (DIMEC), S. Orsola Hospital, University of Bologna, Via Massarenti 13, 40138 Bologna, Italy
| | - Elisa Moro
- Gynecology and Human Reproduction Physiopathology, Dipartimento di Scienze Mediche e Chirurgiche (DIMEC), S. Orsola Hospital, University of Bologna, Via Massarenti 13, 40138 Bologna, Italy
| | - Diego Raimondo
- Gynecology and Human Reproduction Physiopathology, Dipartimento di Scienze Mediche e Chirurgiche (DIMEC), S. Orsola Hospital, University of Bologna, Via Massarenti 13, 40138 Bologna, Italy
| | - Layla Omar Abdullahi
- Gynecology and Human Reproduction Physiopathology, Dipartimento di Scienze Mediche e Chirurgiche (DIMEC), S. Orsola Hospital, University of Bologna, Via Massarenti 13, 40138 Bologna, Italy
| | - Alessandro Arena
- Gynecology and Human Reproduction Physiopathology, Dipartimento di Scienze Mediche e Chirurgiche (DIMEC), S. Orsola Hospital, University of Bologna, Via Massarenti 13, 40138 Bologna, Italy
| | - Patrizia Terzano
- Gynecology and Human Reproduction Physiopathology, Dipartimento di Scienze Mediche e Chirurgiche (DIMEC), S. Orsola Hospital, University of Bologna, Via Massarenti 13, 40138 Bologna, Italy
| | - Maria Cristina Meriggiola
- Gynecology and Human Reproduction Physiopathology, Dipartimento di Scienze Mediche e Chirurgiche (DIMEC), S. Orsola Hospital, University of Bologna, Via Massarenti 13, 40138 Bologna, Italy
| | - Renato Seracchioli
- Gynecology and Human Reproduction Physiopathology, Dipartimento di Scienze Mediche e Chirurgiche (DIMEC), S. Orsola Hospital, University of Bologna, Via Massarenti 13, 40138 Bologna, Italy
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Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Postmenopausal endometriosis is a gynecologic disease, affecting 2-5% of postmenopausal woman. Current literature assessing the prevalence, pathogenesis, and treatment of this uncommon condition is limited, stressing the necessity for future research. This review examines the current literature on postmenopausal endometriosis to help inform clinical decision-making and point to novel approaches for treatment and management. RECENT FINDINGS Although one unifying theory to explain the pathogenesis of endometriotic lesions has not been elucidated, estrogen dependence is central to the pathophysiological process. The total quantity of estrogen production is mediated by multiple enzymes in complex pathways. Recent studies have confirmed the presence of these necessary enzymes in endometriotic lesions thereby suggesting a local source of estrogen and a likely pathogenic contributor. More research is needed to fully elucidate the mechanism of local estrogen biosynthesis; however, the current data provide possible explanations for the presence of postmenopausal endometriosis in an otherwise systemically hypoestrogenic environment. SUMMARY All suspected endometriosis lesions should be surgically excised for optimization of treatment and prevention of malignant transformation. If hormone replacement therapy is initiated, combined estrogen and progestin is recommended, even in the setting of previous hysterectomy, given the risk of disease reactivation and malignant transformation of endometriotic lesions. Further research is needed to understand the true prevalence, cause, and progression in this patient demographic. Histologic studies evaluating tissue lesions and peritoneal fluid for estrogen receptors, estrogen metabolizing enzymes, immune cells, and nerve fibers will aide in clinical management and treatment planning.
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Barra F, Scala C, Biscaldi E, Vellone VG, Ceccaroni M, Terrone C, Ferrero S. Ureteral endometriosis: a systematic review of epidemiology, pathogenesis, diagnosis, treatment, risk of malignant transformation and fertility. Hum Reprod Update 2019; 24:710-730. [PMID: 30165449 DOI: 10.1093/humupd/dmy027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 58] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2017] [Accepted: 08/03/2018] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The ureter is the second most common site affected by urinary tract endometriosis, after the bladder. Optimal strategies in the diagnosis and treatment of ureteral endometriosis (UE) are not yet well defined. OBJECTIVE AND RATIONALE The aim of this study was to systematically review evidence regarding the epidemiology, pathophysiology, diagnosis, medical and surgical treatment, impact on fertility and risk of malignant transformation of UE. SEARCH METHODS A systematic literature review, by searching the MEDLINE and PUBMED database until April 2018, was performed in accordance with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-analysis (PRISMA) statement and was registered in the PROSPERO registry (www.crd.york.ac.uk/PROSPERO CRD42017060065). A total of 67 articles were selected to be included in this review. OUTCOMES The involvement of the ureter by endometriosis is often asymptomatic or leads to non-specific symptoms. When the diagnosis is delayed, UE may lead to persistent hydronephrosis and eventually loss of renal function. Ultrasonography is the first-line technique for the assessment of UE; alternatively, magnetic resonance imaging provides an evaluation of ureteral type involvement. The surgical treatment of UE aims to relieve ureteral obstruction and avoid disease recurrence. It includes conservative ureterolysis or radical approaches, such as ureterectomy with end-to-end anastomosis or ureteroneocystostomy performed in relation to the type of ureteral involvement. Fertility and pregnancy outcomes are in line with those observed after surgical treatment of deep infiltrating endometriosis (DIE). Current evidence does not support the potential risk of malignant transformation of UE. WIDER IMPLICATIONS In this article, we review available evidence on ureteral endometriosis, providing a useful tool to guide physicians in the management of this disease. Diagnosis and management of UE remain a challenge. In relation to the degree of ureteral involvement and the association with other DIE implants, the surgical approach should be planned and carried out in an interdisciplinary collaboration between gynecologist and urologist.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fabio Barra
- Department of Neurosciences, Rehabilitation, Ophthalmology, Genetics, Maternal and Child Health (DiNOGMI), University of Genova, Genova, Italy.,Academic Unit of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Genova, Italy
| | - Carolina Scala
- Department of Neurosciences, Rehabilitation, Ophthalmology, Genetics, Maternal and Child Health (DiNOGMI), University of Genova, Genova, Italy.,Academic Unit of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Genova, Italy
| | - Ennio Biscaldi
- Department of Radiology, Galliera Hospital, Genova, Italy
| | - Valerio Gaetano Vellone
- Department of Surgical and Diagnostic Sciences, Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, University of Genova, Genova, Italy
| | - Marcello Ceccaroni
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Gynecologic Oncology and Minimally Invasive Pelvic Surgery, International School of Surgical Anatomy, 'Sacro Cuore - Don Calabria' Hospital, Negrar, Verona, Italy
| | - Carlo Terrone
- Department of Urology, Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, University of Genova, Genova, Italy
| | - Simone Ferrero
- Department of Neurosciences, Rehabilitation, Ophthalmology, Genetics, Maternal and Child Health (DiNOGMI), University of Genova, Genova, Italy.,Academic Unit of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Genova, Italy
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de Almeida Asencio F, Ribeiro HA, Ayrosa Ribeiro P, Malzoni M, Adamyan L, Ussia A, Gomel V, Martin DC, Koninckx PR. Symptomatic endometriosis developing several years after menopause in the absence of increased circulating estrogen concentrations: a systematic review and seven case reports. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2019. [DOI: 10.1186/s10397-019-1056-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
Abstract
Abstract
Background
To review women with symptomatic and clinically progressive endometriosis after menopause in the absence of estrogen intake or excessive systemic endogenous production.
Design
Seven case reports and a systematic review of the literature from 1995 till February 2018.
Results
Only 7 case reports from the authors and 29 cases from the literature described women with either cystic ovarian or deep endometriosis. Severity, symptoms, and localization are highly variable. No case report describes symptomatic superficial typical lesions. In 22 of 36 women (61%), symptoms started more than 10 years after menopause.
Conclusions
Symptomatic and clinically progressive endometriosis after menopause in the absence of increased systemic estrogen concentrations or exogenous estrogen intake starts more than 10 years after menopause in the majority of women. This observation suggests that a genetic and/or epigenetic incident caused estrogen-independent progression, increased sensitivity to estrogens or increased local production of estrogens. This observation is important for understanding the pathophysiology of endometriosis, for the management of postmenopausal endometriosis, and for individualization of medical therapy of endometriosis since estrogen-independent endometriosis growth probably also occurs before menopause.
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Brosens I, Puttemans P, Benagiano G. Endometriosis: a life cycle approach? Am J Obstet Gynecol 2013; 209:307-16. [PMID: 23500453 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajog.2013.03.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2013] [Revised: 02/16/2013] [Accepted: 03/07/2013] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
To improve the still fragmented understanding of endometriosis, a life cycle approach was adopted that revealed unexpected aspects of the natural history of the disease throughout a woman's life. Three age-related stages of endometriosis are distinguished. In premenarcheal and adolescent endometriosis, 2 types can be distinguished: a classic form that can occur before menarche, and a congenital obstructive form that is caused by uterine anomaly and outflow obstruction. The lesions include superficial peritoneal implants, but adhesions and endometrioma can also occur. It is suggested that premenarcheal and possibly adolescent endometriosis develop by activation of resting stem cells shed at the time of neonatal retrograde uterine bleeding. In the adult, endometriosis can be related to uterine preconditioning by cyclic menstruations acting as a priming mechanism for deep placentation. In adult life, the typical lesions are peritoneal, ovarian, and deep or adenomyotic endometriosis. More recently, endometriosis has been associated with endometrial dysfunction and myometrial junctional zone hyperplasia. These uterine changes can be linked with some major obstetrical syndromes. In postmenopause, endometriosis can develop or be reactivated both in the presence or absence of exogenous estrogens and can spread to a variety of organs and structures causing constrictive lesions.
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Abstract
Ureteral endometriosis is a rare clinical condition in postmenopausal women. It should be considered as one of the differential diagnoses in women presenting with a lower ureteric mass, as it can lead to silent loss of renal function. We present a case of a chronically obstructed kidney due to ureteric endometriosis in a postmenopausal woman.
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