Patient-centered aspects of endometriosis [Patientinnenzentrierte aspekte der endometriose]

Endometriosis is a frequent benign condition. It is defined as the occurrence of cell complexes resembling the endometrium outside the uterine cavity. Numerous theories regarding etiology and pathogenesis have been proposed. A broad spectrum ranging from clinically meaningless random findings to severe conditions involving organ destruction can be observed. The most important symptom is cyclical lower abdominal pain, and coincident infertility is not infrequent. Diagnosis is commonly confirmed by laparoscopy. Medical therapies lead to the suppression of cyclical ovarian function, while surgery aims at destruction or excision of endometriosis foci or the removal of affected organs. If infertility is present, this should be treated with priority. © 2008 Springer Medizin Verlag.