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Alternative names
Endometriosis interna; AdenomyomaDefinition Return to top
Adenomyosis is uterine thickening that occurs when endometrial tissue, which normally lines the uterus, extends into the fibrous and muscular tissue of the uterus.Causes, incidence, and risk factors Return to top
The diagnosis of adenomyosis can only be made after a pathologist examines uterine wall samples.
The cause is unknown. Sometimes a focal area of adenomyosis appears to cause a mass or growth within the uterus, which is called an adenomyoma. The disease usually occurs in women older than 30 who have borne children and rarely occurs in women who have not carried a pregnancy to term.
Some degree of adenomyosis affects 60% of women, but in most cases is not symptomatic.
Symptoms Return to top
Note: In many cases, the woman may not have any symptoms.
Signs and tests Return to top
Pelvic examination may reveal an enlarged, slightly softened uterus, a uterine mass, or uterine tenderness. Additionally, an ultrasound examination of the uterus may be helpful in differentiating between adenomyosis and other uterine tumors.
Treatment Return to top
Usually the only treatment is pain medication (analgesics). A hysterectomy may be necessary in women with severe symptoms who are not approaching menopause.
Most treatment attempts with hormones have been unsuccessful.
Expectations (prognosis) Return to top
Symptoms usually resolve after menstruation ceases (menopause). A hysterectomy completely resolves symptoms.
Complications Return to top
Oral contraceptives may aggravate symptoms of heavy bleeding or pain.
Calling your health care provider Return to top
Call for an appointment with your health care provider if you develop symptoms of adenomyosis.
Update Date: 1/12/2003 Updated by: Daniel Rein, M.D., Obstetrician and Gynecologist, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.
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Page last updated: 28 October 2004 |