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Endometriosis |
Details
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Endometriosis is a medical condition, in which endometrial tissue patches, which usually are found only in the endometrium (uterine lining), grow outside the woman’s uterus. Generally, endometriosis is confined to the abdominal organs surface or abdominal cavity lining. The endometrial implant (misplaced endometrial tissue is uaully adhering to the ligaments and ovaries) that support the uterus. Because, the endometrial implant responds to the same hormone that the uterus responds to, it can bleed at the time of menstrual period, frequently resulting in formation of scar tissue, irritation, pain, and cramps. As the endometriosis progresses, adhesions can form. The endometrial implant and adhesions may interfere or blocks with organs functioning. In rare cases, adhesions may block the woman’s intestine. Endometriosis may run in families. Endometriosis also may occur in women with an abnormal uterus, giving birth for the 1st time after the age of thirty, and being of caucasian descent. Endometriosis occurs in approx. 10 to 15% of menstruating females between the ages of twenty five and fourty four, it may also happen in teenagers. About 25 to 50% of infertile females can have endometriosis, which may physically interfere with conceptions. Endometriosis in severe forms can result in infertility, by blocking passage of the egg, from a woman’s ovary into the uterus. Endometriosis in mild form also can result in infertility. The endometriosis cause is not established. The disease may result in infertility, menstrual irregularities and pain in the pelvic and abdomen area. Frequently, a female does not experience menstrual pain unless she has had endometriosis for a few years. Some females experience pain during or before menstruation during dyspareania (sexual intercourse). Endometrial tissues attached to the ovary or closest structure may form an endometrioma (blood-filled mass). In some cases, an endometrioma leaks or ruptures, resulting sharps, sudden abdominal pain. A gynecologist can suggest endometriosis in a female with unexplained infertility or specific symptoms. The endometriosis diagnosis may be determined only if the endometrial tissue patches are found. Usually, a gynecologist inspects the abdominal cavity through a laparoscope placed into the cavity of the abdomen through a small incision below the navel. Diagnosis may be confirmed only by performing biopsy, often done during the endoscopy. MRI, CT, or X-ray enemas can be done to see a disease extent. Treatment of endometriosis based on extent of disease, age, pregnancy plans, on woman’s symptoms. Medications, that suppress ovaries activity and slowly endometrial tissue growth include gonadotropin-releasing hormones (GnRH) agnosists, danazol, progestins, and combination oral contraceptives. Women with moderate to severe forms of endometriosis may require surgery. A surgeon removes as much misplaced andometrial tissue (endometrial implant) as possible, usually at the time of preserving the female’s ability to having a child. Frequently, the tissue may be removed at the time of laparoscopy when the diagnosis is confirmed. Surgeries are usually needed for endometrial tissue patches, longer than 1 ½ to two inches in diameter, for endometrial tissue that obstructs 1 or both fallopian tubes or that results in severe pelvic or abdominal pain, unrelieved by medications, and for significant adhensions in the pelvis or lower abdomen.
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| Category |
Disease Conditions > E
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| Related Searches |
endometriosis symptoms, endometriosis pilates |
| Date Submitted |
25-Jan-2006
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