Treatment algorithm for women with endometriosis in a certified Endometriosis Unit.

Abstract

Introduction: Endometriosis is a chronic hormone-dependent disease affecting approximately 25-30% of women in the third and fourth decade. Despite its frequency, it is often detected late. The aim of this overview article was to present a standardized treatment algorithm for an interdisciplinary endometriosis consultation considering conservative and surgical approaches.

Evidence acquisition: Despite the frequency of endometriosis and a high number of publications dealing with the disease there is a lack of evidence in literature for standardized treatment algorithms allowing a rational diagnostic and therapeutic approach. In May 2019 we did a literature search in Medline. While finding 26702 publications under the term "endometriosis" there was only one publication for the search term "endometriosis consultation treatment algorithm." After screening the abstracts 144 publications in English, French or German language had been assessed as relevant for the diagnosis and therapy of endometriosis (143 overview articles and one guideline).

Evidence synthesis: Based on clinical evidence, we have developed a treatment algorithm for women with suspected endometriosis. The diagnosis includes a structured medical history with the identification of endometriosis-typical symptoms and a gynecological examination, if necessary additional examinations. The treatment algorithm is essentially divided into the phase of diagnosis and the phase of therapy as well as the prevention of recurrence or long-term treatment. A multi-professional team of visceral surgery, urology, nutritional medicine, physiotherapy and psychology can be consulted for support.

Conclusions: The treatment of endometriosis should be multiprofessional, standardized and reproducible during specialized consultations at certified centers. So far, there are few publications on a standardized and clinically proven treatment algorithm for women with suspected endometriosis. The presented treatment algorithm could be helpful in the diagnosis and treatment of endometriosis patients, even at other centers.