Endometriosis in cesarean section surgical scar

Abstract

Endometriosis is the presence of endometrial glands and stroma outside of uterine cavity. It may occur in the abdominal wall scar after the operation in which uterus was opened. In cesarean section scar it occurs in 0.4%. It is in 2/3 patients characterised with triad of: tumor, periodic pain associated with menses and history of cesarean section. The mechanism of endometriosis occuring in the cesarean scar is felt to be secondary to iatrogenic transplantation of endometrium or extrauterine decidual tissue into the incision during the cesarean section. Forty years old patient with tumor 4,5x4 cm that appeared in abdominal wall scar one year after second cesarean section, followed by periodic pain and macroscopic changes associated with menses. First diagnosis was granuloma in the surgical scar, but as she had periodic simptoms, diferential diagnosis was endometriosis. Hormonal therapy with contraceptiv drugs was ordered. As it was no improvement she was operated. The surgical excision of the tumor including fascia and muscle tissue was done. Sample revealed endometrium after histopathologic examination. Patient was complitely recoverd and without relepse of simptoms during followup to date. When there is a tumor in the cesarean section scar or scar after the operation in which uterus or ovarial tube was opened, followed with periodical pain and macroscopic changes associated with menses, endometriosis should be considered. Surgical excision of the tumor is sufficient and patohistological examination confirms diagnosis.