$Unique_ID{BRK01637}
$Pretitle{Genitourinary System}
$Title{The Causes of Endometriosis}
$Subject{endometriosis cause}
$Volume{J-14}
$Log{}

Copyright (c) 1991   Tribune Media Services, Inc.


The Causes of Endometriosis


------------------------------------------------------------------------------

QUESTION:  Can you offer me some idea as to the causes of endometriosis?  I
would like to learn more about this very strange disease.  Please help.

------------------------------------------------------------------------------

ANSWER:  Although several controversial theories exist, it would appear that
endometriosis is the result of occasional "retrograde," or reverse, menstrual
flow, combined with an immune system problem.  This reverse flow occurs in
many women occasionally, and when it does, the menstrual fluid escapes through
the fallopian tubes into the abdominal cavity.  From the abdominal cavity, the
fluid can travel to other parts of the body.  The endometrial tissue (that
normally lines the uterus) now located in an abnormal place within the body,
follows the same pattern of monthly growth that it would in the uterus.  As
there is no escape exit as exists for the tissue in the uterus, it can cause
problems by accumulating.  An immune system defect, which would prevent the
body from correcting the problem, can make the situation even more severe.
     Endometriosis is more common in higher socioeconomic groups, and an
estimated four women per 1,000 aged 15 to 64 are hospitalized with the problem
each year in the U.S.  Women with first-degree relatives who have had
endometriosis have a seven-times greater chance of having it themselves.
Patients who start menstruating at an early age are at higher risk, also.
     Infertility, pelvic pain, low back pain, or menstrual irregularity or
discomfort may be signs of endometriosis.  The only way to make a positive
diagnosis, however, is to examine the abdominal cavity and obtain small
samples of the suspicious tissue (biopsy).  This is accomplished through a
laproscope, a thin telescopic like instrument, which is inserted through a
tiny incision around the navel.
     Once diagnosed, endometriosis may be difficult to treat, but both medical
and surgical methods can be used help correct the problem.
ÿ
----------------

The material contained here is "FOR INFORMATION ONLY" and should not replace 
the counsel and advice of your personal physician.  Promptly consulting your 
doctor is the best path to a quick and successful resolution of any medical 
problem.
