Sciatic endometriosis: A narrative review of an unusual neurogynecologic condition

Abstract

Endometriosis is a condition in which there is an ectopic growth of endometrial tissue. Sciatic endometriosis, otherwise known as catamenial sciatica, is a rare but exceedingly significant presentation of endometriosis. Symptoms include cyclic sciatic pain that peaks during the menstrual period; additionally, paresthesia, paresis, and areflexia may occur with this condition. Sciatic endometriosis can be presumptively diagnosed in response to empiric treatment (e.g. gonadotropin-releasing hormone analogs) or imaging studies, but a definitive diagnosis of sciatic endometriosis may occur from examining tissue obtained during surgery. Surgical removal of endometriosis from the sciatic nerve root can potentially eliminate symptoms while maintaining normal reproductive function, though poses particular surgical risks. Familiarity with this rare condition is paramount to making this diagnosis and the initiation of earlier treatment.