Endometriosis and the gut

Abstract

Six patients with endometriosis involving the intestine are described and illustrate the variety of symptoms which may occur in this condition, many of which are frequently associated with the more common gastrointestinal illnesses. A correct preoperative diagnosis based on history, clinical examination, radiology, and endoscopy may be difficult to make, and when first discovered at laparotomy endometriosis can easily be mistaken for other inflammatory, or neoplastic processes. A histological diagnosis should always be made before definitive treatment.