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Friday, February 04, 2005

Endo-what??

Endometriosis is a condition where endometrium (the lining of the uterus) is found in locations outside the uterus.

This misplaced tissue may be found on the ovaries, uterus, bowel, bladder utero-sacral ligaments (ligaments that hold the uterus in place), or peritoneum (covering lining of the pelvis and abdominal cavity). On rare occasions it can be found in other distant sites. The blue arrows below show the migration of the tissue from the uterus.

Migration of tissue causing endometriosis
Image copyright 2000 by Nucleus Communications, Inc.

It is treated by use of hormonal adjustment drugs (eg birth control pills, Lupron) or by surgery (eg laparoscopy)

1 Comments:

  • Keep in mind, it still isn't known why endometrial tissue is found outside the uterus. Retrograde menstruation (which is shown here) occurs in women without endometriosis, and men taking estrogen (who don't have a uterus) can also develop endometriosis on various organs. It is now thought that endometriosis is more like an autoimmune disease; regardless, it is a very common, serious ailment.

    By Anonymous Anonymous, at 7:12 AM  

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