DISEASE SCANNER

Global Incurable Diseases Tracker

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Chronic Condition

Endometriosis

MODERATE

A chronic inflammatory condition where tissue similar to the uterine lining grows outside the uterus, causing pain, inflammation, and infertility. Affects approximately 10% of reproductive-age women. Often underdiagnosed for years.

Global Affected

190.0M

Countries

15

Symptoms

Pelvic pain
Painful periods (dysmenorrhea)
Pain with intercourse
Pain with bowel movements
Heavy menstrual bleeding
Infertility
Fatigue
Bloating

Treatment Options

NSAIDs
Hormonal contraceptives
Progestins
GnRH agonists/antagonists
Aromatase inhibitors
Laparoscopic excision
Hysterectomy (definitive)
Fertility treatments

Risk Factors

1Family history
2Early menarche
3Short menstrual cycles
4Heavy menstrual flow
5Nulliparity
6Late menopause
7Low BMI

Diagnostic Methods

  • 1Clinical history and examination
  • 2Transvaginal ultrasound
  • 3MRI for deep infiltrating disease
  • 4Laparoscopy with biopsy (definitive)
  • 5CA-125 (sometimes elevated)

Prognosis

Chronic relapsing condition. No cure, but symptoms manageable. Fertility can often be preserved with appropriate treatment. Recurrence common after surgery. Quality of life significantly impacted without treatment.

Prevention

  • No known prevention
  • Early diagnosis and treatment
  • Regular exercise may reduce risk
  • Avoiding environmental endocrine disruptors

Research Status

Hormonal therapies (oral contraceptives, GnRH agonists, progestins) suppress disease. Excision surgery by specialists is gold standard for treatment. Elagolix (oral GnRH antagonist) approved. Research on non-hormonal treatments ongoing.

Affected Countries

AustraliaBrazilCanadaChinaGermanySpainFranceUnited KingdomIndiaItalyJapanMexicoTaiwanUkraineUnited States

Sources

  • https://medlineplus.gov
  • https://www.mayoclinic.org
  • https://www.hematology.org/education/patients
  • https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books
  • https://rarediseases.org/rare-diseases

Medical Disclaimer

This information is for educational purposes only. Always consult healthcare professionals for medical advice, diagnosis, and treatment.