2622 an Endometriosis Field Guide: Proposing a Standardized Descriptive Nomenclature

Abstract

Video Objective Well recognized is the variety of presentations of endometriosis beyond simply the classic black powder-burn lesions of John Sampson (1927). No standardized nomenclature exists to provide either gross morphologic description nor classification of the variety of endometriosis lesions. Borrowing from Dermatology systems of descriptive nomenclature, this video reviews a classification system specific for endometriosis focusing on Primary as well as Secondary lesion characteristics and then demonstrates use of the classification system for a variety of different endometriosis lesions. The purpose of this video is to propose a standardized nomenclature by which to describe the gross morphologic characteristics of endometriosis seen on laparoscopic imaging at the time of surgery. Setting Laparoscopic excision of endometriosis performed in the OR with then pathologic diagnostic correlation. Interventions During the course of laparoscopic radical excision of endometriosis, we identified a wide variety of non-classic or atypical returning with pathologic diagnosis of endometriosis. These variety of then formed the basis for a gross morphologic classification system by which such can be standardly described. Conclusion The wide variety of endometriosis can be described and classified according to a standardized nomenclature based on gross morphologic characteristics easily identified at laparoscopy. This standardized nomenclature not only supports a broader recognition of endometriosis by surgeons but permits comparative studies of grossly identified endometriosis.