How to detect endometriosis

endometriosis is mainly diagnosed through gynecological examination, imaging examination, and laboratory examination. Common methods include gynecological double diagnosis, ultrasound examination, magnetic resonance imaging, serum CA125 measurement, and laparoscopic examination.

1. Gynecological double examination:

Gynecological double examination is a routine method for doctors to examine the pelvic cavity through finger palpation. Doctors will touch the uterus, ovaries, and surrounding tissues to determine if there are tender nodules or thickened ligaments. This type of examination can initially detect pelvic adhesions or cysts caused by ectopic lesions, but it cannot be diagnosed and needs to be combined with other examinations. During the examination, the patient needs to relax their abdomen and cooperate with the doctor's operation.

2. Ultrasound examination:

Ultrasound examination is the most commonly used imaging method for diagnosing endometriosis, including transabdominal ultrasound and transvaginal ultrasound. It can clearly display the size, location, and internal structure of ovarian chocolate cysts, typically manifested as uniform and fine punctate echoes inside the cyst. Ultrasound can also evaluate the morphology of the uterus and other organs in the pelvic cavity, helping doctors determine the extent of lesions. Before the examination, it is necessary to hold urine or empty the bladder, and prepare according to the doctor's requirements.

3. Magnetic resonance imaging:

Magnetic resonance imaging has a high diagnostic value for deep invasive endometriosis, and can display pelvic soft tissue structures in multiple planes with high resolution. It can accurately assess the depth and extent of lesion invasion into the rectum, bladder, or ureter, providing a basis for developing surgical plans. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) does not emit radiation, but it is expensive and is usually used when ultrasound cannot provide a clear diagnosis or when deep lesions are suspected.

4. Serum CA125 determination:

Serum CA125 is a tumor associated antigen that is often mildly elevated in patients with endometriosis, but with low specificity. This examination is mainly used to assist in diagnosis and monitor changes in the condition, especially when the chocolate cyst ruptures or the lesion is active, the value will significantly increase. Elevated CA125 can also be seen in diseases such as ovarian cancer and pelvic inflammatory disease, so it cannot be used alone as a diagnostic basis. It needs to be judged comprehensively based on clinical symptoms and other examinations.

5. Laparoscopic examination:

Laparoscopic examination is the gold standard for diagnosing endometriosis. The doctor places a laparoscope through a small incision in the abdomen to directly observe the shape, color, and distribution of ectopic lesions in the pelvic cavity. If necessary, live tissue can be taken for pathological examination. Laparoscopy can also perform treatment procedures such as lesion resection and cyst dissection simultaneously. This examination needs to be performed under anesthesia and is a minimally invasive surgery with a faster postoperative recovery. After being diagnosed with endometriosis, it is recommended that patients maintain a regular daily routine, avoid overwork, keep warm during menstruation, and engage in yoga, walking, and exercise appropriately. Reducing the intake of raw, cold, and spicy foods in diet, and eating more vegetables and fruits rich in dietary fiber, such as broccoli and apples, can help alleviate pelvic congestion and inflammatory reactions. Regularly review gynecological ultrasound and CA125 to monitor changes in the condition. If there is continuous worsening of dysmenorrhea or menstrual abnormalities, seek medical attention promptly to adjust the treatment plan.