Episode 18: Systematic review of Endometriosis in teenagers with chronic pelvic pain

This systematic review examines the prevalence and severity of endometriosis among adolescents experiencing pelvic pain. By analyzing nineteen studies, researchers discovered that roughly 64% of symptomatic young women undergoing surgery were diagnosed with the condition. The findings indicate that the disease distribution in teenagers is comparable to adults, often involving significant diagnostic delays that disrupt education and social life. The authors emphasize that imaging tools like MRI and ultrasound are increasingly valuable for identifying the illness noninvasively in younger patients. Ultimately, the source advocates for prompt specialist referral and increased medical awareness to ensure that adolescent symptoms are not dismissed or normalized. This comprehensive overview highlights a critical need for expanded research and standardized diagnostic pathways tailored specifically to the adolescent population.