Title: Extra-pelvic endometriosis : an imaging review: Regarding three cases.
Authors: S. KHAIRALLAH, M.GHFIR, H.OUAZZANI, .I.CHAOUCHE, A.AKAMMAR, N. EL BOUARDI, B. ALAMI, Y. ALAOUI LAMRANI, M. MAAROUFI, M. BOUBBOU
Volume: 9
Issue: 7
Pages: 25-28
Publication Date: 2025/07/28
Abstract:
Endometriosis, a chronic inflammatory condition affecting 10-15% of reproductive-age women, is characterized by the presence of endometrial glands and stroma outside the uterine cavity, often causing pain and infertility. Deep endometriosis is distinguished by nodules larger than 5 mm and differs from peritoneal and ovarian types. The most widely accepted pathogenesis theory is retrograde menstruation, where endometrial cells migrate to the abdominopelvic cavity during menstruation, surviving and implanting based on local and immunologic factors. While pelvic sites such as the pouch of Douglas, retrocervix, and bladder are commonly affected, deep endometriosis can also occur in extra-pelvic locations, including the diaphragm, pleura, and even distant sites like the central and peripheral nervous systems via lymphatic or hematologic spread. Diagnosing and managing extra-pelvic deep endometriosis, especially when involving critical organs, is challenging and often delayed.