Refractory thoracic endometriosis

Abstract

Thoracic endometriosis syndrome (TES) is a rare entity caused by thoracic implantation of endometrial tissue, manifesting as catamenial pneumothorax, pleural effusion and haemoptysis in young female individuals. Its management and long-term prevention of recurrences, can be challenging. We present the case of a young woman who presented with recurrent pneumothorax, haemopneumothorax and pleural effusion. The diagnosis of TES was confirmed based on cytological findings of pleural fluid. She underwent treatment with mechanical pleurodesis twice but continued to have recurrences. Hormonal treatment failed to produce a satisfactory resolution. She underwent chemical pleurodesis, which successfully induced remission of her TES. A review of the literature suggests that chemical pleurodesis produces better results compared with mechanical pleurodesis and that hormonal treatment with gonadotropin-releasing hormone agonists is effective at preventing recurrences.