Chronic pelvic pain and endometriosis in adolescents

Abstract

This review will provide a detailed account of chronic pelvic pain and endometriosis, two conditions that frequently occur in adolescents. Current approaches used to evaluate and treat these patients will be addressed. Although previous investigations have established relative rates of disease and basic treatment algorithms for endometriosis in adolescents, its pathogenesis is yet to be explained. Recent scientific works have focused on the interplay of specific genes and the role of host immune response. Despite such progress, we have not yet learned how to apply this knowledge to clinical use. Most innovative treatment strategies are based on algorithms generated primarily for adults, with only a small percentage focusing on adolescents. Treating pain associated with endometriosis may be facilitated by early intervention. Future study should focus on identifying adolescents with progressive disease and introducing less invasive therapies that could reverse inflammatory pathways and minimize subsequent morbidity.