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Endometriosis Introduction |
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Endometriosis is a gynecological
condition defined by endometrial
(lining of the Uterus) tissues
being located outside the
Uterus, usually in the abdominal
and pelvic cavities. These
misplaced cells are the result of
menstruation, and are thought to
be caused by the continual change
in the hormonal patterns of
menstruating females.
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Instead of the usual expulsion of
these cells during menstruation,
they actually continue their
monthly cycles elsewhere in the
body. This is where problems
arise, as these cells attach
themselves to other organs,
primarily located in the lower
abdomen. The most common
sites for ectopic
endometrium are in the abdomen and
pelvis; however, other sites such as large
bowel, ureters, surgical scars,
and pericardium have also been
observed.
It remains a
mystery as to what actually causes endometriosis. Several
theories have been proposed, but
all lack substantiation. The
most popular of these theories is
Retrograde (or Reflux)
menstruation. This theory
suggests that menstrual fluid
flows back into the fallopian
tubes, spilling into the
peritoneal cavity and causing
these usually expelled cells to
implant themselves on surrounding
tissues. Other commonly
proposed theories of endometriosis
development include:
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Abnormal immune
system functioning,
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Congenital
malformations,
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Transportation of
endometrial cells through
lymphatic system, and
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Exposure to certain
environmental toxins (i.e.
polychlorinated biphenyls, or
PCBs, and dioxin)
Diagnosis of
Endometriosis is usually made
based on clinical presentation, as
well as by direct observations via
pelvic laparoscopy. Laboratory tests
are also available. These
tests are considered useful for tracking the
progress of Endometriosis, however
are only useful after
a definitive diagnosis has been made;
they are not considered an
adequate screen in and of
themselves. [1,
2]
Interestingly, one-third of all
women suffering from endometriosis
exhibit no clinical symptoms.
Typical symptoms of Endometriosis
include a capacitating pain of the
pelvic cavity, lower back, and
uterus. Pain, prior to or
during menses (Dysmenorrhea), as
well as pain with vaginal intercourse
(Dyspareunea), are also common
symptoms. It is important
to note that pain associated with intercourse is considered highly
suggestive of Endometriosis. Depending on where Endometrial
lesions are located, there can
also be pain during defecation,
supra pubic pain during urination,
and possible acute abdominal
pain. [4,
5]
Pelvic masses may also be present.
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Endometriosis
accounts for 30 % of all infertile
women in the U.S.
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Caffeine consumption has been
associated with an increased
incidence of Endometriosis.
Seven grams of caffeine relates to a 1.6
X increase in the developmental risk of
Endometriosis. [3]
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Learn More About
Endometriosis |
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