Adenomyosis Flashcards

1
Q

What is adenomyosis?

A

Adenomyosis refers to endometrial tissue inside the myometrium (muscle layer of the uterus).

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
2
Q

How common is adenomyosis?

A

It is more common in later reproductive years and those that have had several pregnancies (multiparous). It occurs in around 10% of women overall. It may occur alone, or alongside endometriosis or fibroids.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
3
Q

What causes adenomyosis?

A

The cause is not fully understood, and multiple factors are involved, including sex hormones, trauma and inflammation. The condition is hormone-dependent, and symptoms tend to resolve after menopause, similarly to endometriosis and fibroids.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
4
Q

What are the clinical features of adenomyosis?

A

Adenomyosis typically presents with:

  • Painful periods (dysmenorrhoea)
  • Heavy periods (menorrhagia)
  • Pain during intercourse (dyspareunia)

It may also present with infertility or pregnancy-related complications. Around a third of patients are asymptomatic.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
5
Q

How does adenomyosis present on examination?

A

Examination can demonstrate an enlarged and tender uterus. It will feel more soft than a uterus containing fibroids.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
6
Q

Briefly describe the diagnosis of adenomyosis

A

Transvaginal ultrasound of the pelvis is the first-line investigation for suspected adenomyosis.

MRI and transabdominal ultrasound are alternative investigations where transvaginal ultrasound is not suitable.

The gold standard is to perform a histological examination of the uterus after a hysterectomy. However, this is not usually a suitable way of establishing the diagnosis for obvious reasons.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
7
Q

What non-contraceptive management can be offered for adenomyosis?

A

When the woman does not want contraception; treatment can be used during menstruation for symptomatic relief, with:

  • Tranexamic acid when there is no associated pain (antifibrinolytic – reduces bleeding)
  • Mefenamic acid when there is associated pain (NSAID – reduces bleeding and pain)
How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
8
Q

What contraceptive management can be offered for adenomyosis?

A

Management when contraception is wanted or acceptable:

  • Mirena coil (first line)
  • Combined oral contraceptive pill
  • Cyclical oral progestogens

Progesterone only medications such as the pill, implant or depot injection may also be helpful.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
9
Q

What specialist management can be offered for adenomyosis?

A

Other options are that may be considered by a specialist include:

  • GnRH analogues to induce a menopause-like state
  • Endometrial ablation
  • Uterine artery embolisation
  • Hysterectomy
How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
10
Q

What are the complications of adenomyosis?

A

Adenomyosis is associated with:

  • Infertility
  • Miscarriage
  • Preterm birth
  • Small for gestational age
  • Preterm premature rupture of membranes
  • Malpresentation
  • Need for caesarean section
  • Postpartum haemorrhage
How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly