Intestinal endometriosis: the great masquerader

Curr Gastroenterol Rep. 2004 Oct;6(5):405-9. doi: 10.1007/s11894-004-0058-6.

Abstract

Chronic symptoms of abdominal pain and irregular bowel habits in women evoke a broad differential diagnosis including irritable bowel syndrome, infection, malabsorption, and inflammatory bowel disease. Endometriosis, a common disorder in young women that can involve the intestinal tract, deserves consideration as well. Intestinal endometriosis is typically asymptomatic; however, when symptoms occur, they can mimic those of irritable bowel syndrome. Identifying intestinal endometriosis can be challenging, but historical points and key clinical features aid in diagnosis.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Diagnosis, Differential
  • Endometriosis / diagnosis*
  • Endometriosis / therapy
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Intestinal Diseases / diagnosis*
  • Intestinal Diseases / therapy