Endometriosis: A Clinicopathological Study

Background: Endometriosis is defined by the presence of endometrial like glands and stroma without the endometrium and myometrium. It is an estrogen dependent condition and affects 6-10% of females commonly during their reproductive age. Theories have evolved to explain the mechanism of development of this disease whose etiology is largely unknown. It affects a wide range of organs and could present with symptoms.

Aims: The aim of this study is to document the pattern of endometriosis at the Jos University Teaching Hospital in relationship to patient’s age, anatomical distribution of lesion, and symptoms (especially infertility).

Study Design: This is a hospital based retrospective and descriptive study. The major grouping for data were age, site, and symptoms.

Place and Duration of Study: Department of Histopathology, Jos University Teaching Hospital, Jos, Plateau State in North-Central Nigeria between 1st August 2007, and 31st August 2017

Materials and Methods: We reviewed all consecutive cases of endometriosis histopathologically diagnosed at the Histopathology Department of the Jos University Teaching Hospital, Jos, between 1st August 2007, and 31st August 2017. Corresponding patient data such as age, sex, symptoms, and anatomical site of lesion were obtained from case files and surgical pathology records and analyzed. Archived slides and re-cut slides from tissue blocks were reviewed.

Results: Thirty-two (32) cases of endometriosis were diagnosed at the Jos University Teaching Hospital during the study period. The age range was 25-58 years and the mean was 38.0 +8.8 years. The ovary recorded 8 cases accounting for 25% of cases, being the commonest anatomical site involved. Thirteen (40.6%) affected women were infertile.

Conclusion: Endometriosis in our locality is more frequently located in the ovary and a relatively high percentage of this disease is associated with infertility. We recommend that endometriosis be considered in the management of patients with ovarian disease and infertility in our locality.