How can endometriosis be detected?

Endometriosis can be diagnosed through imaging examinations, laboratory tests, and surgical exploration. Different methods are suitable for patients with different degrees of disease severity. Common examinations include ultrasound, magnetic resonance imaging MRI, CA125 index testing, and laparoscopic surgical exploration.

1. Imaging examination:

Ultrasound can initially evaluate the uterus and ovaries for structural abnormalities, especially cysts and other obvious localized lesions. Transvaginal ultrasound is more useful for evaluating pelvic lesions such as endometrial cysts. For more complex cases, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) can provide more detailed images to detect deep endometriosis or assess the extent of tissue, helping doctors confirm the diagnosis.

2 Laboratory examination:

A serum tumor marker called CA125 may be elevated, but this test cannot be used alone as a basis for diagnosis because CA125 may also be abnormal in other diseases such as pelvic inflammatory disease, ovarian tumors, etc. If combined with medical history and imaging examinations, changes in CA125 values ​​can provide some support for the diagnosis.

3Surgical exploration:

Laparoscopy is considered the "gold standard" examination method for endometriosis. It can not only directly observe the lesion site, but also perform tissue biopsy for further diagnosis. Through this minimally invasive surgery, doctors can clearly understand the specific scope and severity of the lesion and whether there are other comorbidities.

Regardless of which examination method is used, women with obvious symptoms or suspected endometriosis should consult a gynecologist as soon as possible to develop the best diagnosis and treatment plan based on the examination results.