Abdominal wall endometriosis: clinical presentation, imaging features and management of five cases

Abstract

Introduction Endometriosis represents a functional endometrium outside the uterine cavity. Ectopic endometrial tissue has been identified within the pelvis, affecting both pelvic and extrapelvic organs, causing recurrent pelvic or abdominal pain corresponding to the menstrual cycle. The incidence of abdominal wall endometriosis after Cesarean section is approximately 2%. It is often mistaken for other conditions primarily because this condition is underestimated on imaging. The objective of this case series is to summarize possible clinical and radiological presentations of this uncommon condition. Outline of cases The authors present a case series of five patients who developed abdominal wall endometriosis after Cesarean section. Having been diagnosed clinically, the patients underwent open abdominal surgery, and were treated by surgical resection. Conclusion Good clinical practice and excellent surgical techniques may help in preventing endometriosis, while adequate clinical examination and proper imaging can help in presurgical planning and successful definitive treatment.