Adenomyosis is related to endometriosis, and represents the presence of endometrial glands and stroma in the uterine myometrium. It’s a benign condition and can be either diffuse or focal. Diffuse adenomyosis represents the invasion of endometrial glands and/or stroma within the myometrium. Focal adenomyosis or adenomyoma, circumscribed tumours consisting of endometrium and muscle tissue;
What is the uterus structure?
The uterus is made up of two types of tissues: endometrium and myometrium. The endometrium is the inner lining of the uterus and it has glands in its tissue structure. The myometrium is the relatively thick muscular wall that gives the uterus its pear shape.
Symptoms of adenomyosis
Adenomyosis can be symptomatic and asymptomatic. It symptoms can vary, but in may cases can be some of the below:
- Heavy or prolonged menstruation;
- Extremely painful menstruation;
- Pain during intercourse;
- Clots in menstrual blood;
- General pain in the pelvic area;
- Sensation of pressure on the bladder and rectum;
- Painful bowel movements;
- Pain during urination;
- Abnormal vaginal bleeding;
- Infertility;
Diagnosis of adenomyosis
Adenomyosis is a common but under-recognised condition characterised by an enlarged uterus and is often diagnosed on an ultrasound or MRI scan. However, the final diagnosis of adenomyosis is made after the histological examination of surgically removed specimens.
Treatment
The condition has a negative impact on the quality of life of women in a high percentage of cases due to abnormal vaginal bleeding and pain. These symptoms require a treatment modality, which can be medical or surgical. The choice of treatment methods depends on the patient’s age, reproductive status and clinical symptoms.
Treatment of this condition is divided into medical therapy and surgical therapy, which can be conservative or radical, depending on the type of disease and whether fertility is desired.
