Extra‐pelvic endometriosis: A review

Abstract

Background

Extra‐pelvic endometriosis is a rare type of endometriosis, which occurs in a distant site from gynecological organs. The diagnosis of extra‐pelvic endometriosis can be extremely challenging and may result in a delay in diagnosis. The main objective of this review was to characterize abdominal wall endometriosis (AWE) and thoracic endometriosis (TE).

Methods

The authors performed a literature search to provide an overview of AWE and TE, which are the major types of extra‐pelvic endometriosis.

Main findings

Abdominal wall endometriosis includes scar endometriosis secondary to the surgical wound and spontaneous AWE, most of which occur in the umbilicus or groin. Surgical treatment appeared to be effective for AWE. Case reports indicated that the diagnosis and treatment of catamenial pneumothorax or endometriosis‐related pneumothorax (CP/ERP) are challenging, and a combination of surgery and postoperative hormonal therapy is essential. Further, catamenial hemoptysis (CH) can be adequately managed by hormonal treatment, unlike CP/ERP.

Conclusion

Evidence‐based approaches to diagnosis and treatment of extra‐pelvic endometriosis remain immature given the low prevalence and limited quality of research available in the literature. To gain a better understanding of extra‐pelvic endometriosis, it would be advisable to develop a registry involving a multidisciplinary collaboration with gynecologists, general surgeons, and thoracic surgeons.

Abstract

Abdominal wall endometriosis includes scar endometriosis secondary to the surgical wound and spontaneous AWE, most of which occur in the umbilicus or groin. The diagnosis and treatment of catamenial pneumothorax or endometriosis‐related pneumothorax (CP/ERP) are challenging, and a combination of surgery and postoperative hormonal therapy is essential. Further, catamenial hemoptysis can be adequately managed by hormonal treatment, unlike CP/ERP.