Endometriosis of the urinary tract

Endometriosis is the growth of endometrial tissue outside the normal confines of the myometrium or uterine cavity. There are two types of symptoms: those caused by pelvic endometriosis itself and those secondary to urinary involvement. Genitourinary involvement occurs in 1% to 2% of cases. The clinical diagnosis is made based on history, physical examination, laparoscopy, and biopsy of any suspicious lesions. Treatment depends on age, fertility desire, extent of bladder disease, severity of lower urinary tract symptoms, presence of other pelvic disease, and the degree of menstrual dysfunction. Both medical and surgical treatment play an important role in the management of endometriosis.