What are the signs of endometriosis?

[twiggy236]

Can anyone tell me what the diferrence is between ovca symptoms and endometriosis symptoms? I have an anovulatory uterus and the right adnexum is enlarged by a complicated cystic mass with internal septations and debris. My endometrium is 17mm. I am going crazy now waiting for a TAH/BSO on June 17th. I am now done with all the tests and just waiting for my pre-op appointment. I just wish I knew more of what this could be before I go to the OR. I want to be prepared as possible. Is is cancer, benign, or endometriosis? I hate waiting and I am counting down the days to the surgery. I just want my life back. Sometimes I think endometriosis, somedays cancer. I don't believe my pain I have sounds like endometriosis, but not cancer either.
If anyone could give me some advice or questions to ask my ONC that would be great. I wish the u/s could tell me more or the ONC more.

[chloe08]

You can still have endometriosis grow/proliferate if there are endo cells left over after the uterus is removed and if you still have your ovaries.  It is the hormones that make it grow etc.
That is why w/ me they took the last ovary etc so that whatever microscopic endo is left wouldn't grow.
My understanding is that what is left eventually dies off so that is part of the reason why they wait to start HRT

Twiggy - how big is the mass?  When you say 'although I had an endometrial biopsy they still say.... ' can you be more specific?  IE/  was the biopsy benign or not?  Did they say anything about adenomyosis (this is basically endometriosis but on different parts of the uterus as opposed to outside the uterus).Also, is this a Gyn or a Gyn/Onc who is evaluating you?  

[painlady]

can you have endo if you have no uterus?

[twiggy236]

The u/s says it could be ovarian neoplasm, endometrioma, and tubo-ovarian abscess. It has taken over my right ovary and fallopian tube. Although I had an endometrial biopsy they are still saying my uterus could have  hyperplasia or mass. I guess this waiting is starting to get to me.

[chloe08]

HI I just had a hysterectomy for a variety of reasons - endometriosis being one of them.  I had cysts caused by endo as well.  They are able to be picked up by u/s but nobody will say for sure (at least they shouldn't) what something is until it is taken out and biopsied.  Endometriomas are complex (have debris, blood and some fluid) and resemble hemorrhagic cysts - both of these are benign.  Endo can cause alot of discomfort and pain in various places including (but not limited to) abdomen, rectal area.  Is the mass on your ovary?  Did the doctor say it looked like an endometrioma?

[TrudieC]

Hi there.  I don't have endometriosis so can't comment on that part.  Cysts can definitely cause a lot of pain which can be enhanced if endometriosis is involved.  Take a look at the health pages and the cyst info there.  Remember that there is a 95% chance this cyst is benign and it is wonderful that they are getting everything together for surgery so quickly.  Unfortunately a firm diagnosis cannot happen until the surgery and pathology.  Good luck and keep us posted on your progress.

Trudie