The Role of MRI Diffusion in the detection of Endometriosis

Abstract

Endometriosis is the presence of functional endometrium, outside the uterine cavity and its myometrium. It primarily impacts women of child-bearing age with an estimated prevalence of approximately 10%.(Marcal et al., 2010)

Pathologically, it may vary from microscopic endometriotic implants to large cysts (endometriomas). The ovaries are the most common sites affected, but endometriosis can also involve the GIand urinary tract, chest, and soft tissues.(Woodward et al., 2001)

Several hypotheses have been proposed to explain the development of endometriosis: 1. Retrograde menstruation 2. Coelomic metaplasia 3. Lymphatic and vascular embolism However, other factors help to sustain the continuity of this endometrium-like tissue in place. These include hormonal and immunological factors. In addition, there are several risk factors such as, familial, genetic mutations, and environmental toxins.(Fauser et al., 2011).

The commonest symptoms of endometriosis are infertility, pelvic pain, dysmenorrehea, dysparunia, dyschesia, & dysuria. Endometriosis-related pain may not correlate with the disease stage but may be associated with the lesion infiltration depth.(Chamie et al., 2010)