Pathology
- most commonly - endometriotric deposits are multiple small (<1cm) raised blue-black nodules - they appear as if ink has been injected under the peritoneum. If the condition is severe then the nodules may be larger and surrounded by variable amounts of fibrosis
- other 'atypical/subtle' lesions commonly seen include red implants (petechial, vesicular, polypoid, haemorrhagic, red flame-like) and serous or clear vesicles (1)
- involvement of the ovary may lead to the formation of an endometrioma (chocolate cyst)
- deep infiltrating nodules extend more than 5mm below the peritoneal surface and may penetrate or adhere to other structures (eg. bowel, bladder, ureters, vagina) (1)
- extensive pelvic damage due to fibrosis and adhesions may occur in chronic disease
- microscopically endometriotic deposits contain glands and stroma. There is also a variable amount of fibrosis and bleeding. The endometriotic deposits may be out of phase with the woman's menstrual cycle. However, like normal endometrial tissue, the deposits decidualize during pregnancy
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